Active Hastings PCN Team Wins Health Improvement Award at Sussex Sport & Physical Activity Awards 2024

A pioneering team working to break down barriers to physical activity for adults and young people with long-term health conditions or disabilities has been recognised at the Sussex Sport & Physical Activity Awards 2024.

The Active Hastings Primary Care Network (PCN) project team was awarded the prestigious Health Improvement category on November 28 for its exceptional work in promoting physical activity within the community. 

The award recognises the team’s commitment to improving health outcomes and fostering greater inclusivity in physical activity for individuals with long-term health conditions and disabilities.

Jasmin Gray, part of the team, said, “Our team is all about working with people who aren’t physically active because we believe at Active Hastings that everyone should be active regardless of how intense or how small the activity. 

“Our drive is to get as many people active in Hastings as possible, regardless of medical history or anything that might be slowing them down. 

“It’s fantastic. We don’t do it for the recognition. We literally do it because it is our passion. So to be recognised for all our hard work is just nice. It’s like a little pat on the back.”

Over the past six months, the team’s efforts have seen 1,195 local residents participate in physical activity sessions, with 36 per cent of adults and 17 per cent of young people attending classes having a long-term health condition or disability. 

This is a significant increase from previous engagement levels, where only 7 per cent of people with long-term conditions were taking part in such activities.

The programme, which includes a variety of inclusive classes such as Pilates, chair-based yoga, and Qigong, has been instrumental in raising awareness of the benefits of physical activity among health professionals. 

It has also built strong partnerships with Hastings and St Leonards PCN to ensure that residents have access to the support and resources they need to improve their health.

Emma Bailey, Social Marketing and Communications Officer for Active Hastings, said: “Referrals from health professionals, along with using GP surgeries’ marketing channels like text message services and digital display boards, have helped us improve awareness of the importance of physical activity for those with long-term health conditions.

“The impact of the programme has been undeniable. 95 per cent of young people who took part reported improvements in their mental health, and 89 per cent of adults saw improvements in their physical health, with 78 per cent reporting better mental health.”

Participants have shared their own stories of transformation. 

One neuro exercise class participant explained: “I can now carry a plate of hot food from my kitchen to my dining room. I can get out of bed easier than before, with less pain, and I am stronger in my balance and ability to judge distances and spatial awareness.”

Another Pilates participant added: “I feel physically stronger and much more agile, which has helped me feel less frightened and anxious. It has changed the way I live and feel now, more positive and resilient.”

The Active Hastings PCN team’s success highlights the growing importance of inclusive health initiatives and their positive impact on the community. 

By increasing accessibility to physical activity for those who need it most, the programme is playing a key role in improving the overall health and well-being of Hastings residents.