Sport England in collaboration with Sheffield Hallam University and the National Centre for Sport & Exercise Medicine (NCSEM) have produced the 'Easier to be Active' project which is aimed at those working in sectors promoting, providing, delivering or connecting physical activity to people with long-term health conditions.

The 'Easier to be Active' resource is centred around a ‘5Is’ framework and highlights the 4 key ways the sport and physical activity sector can change to better support people with health conditions.

Research from NCSEM shows supporting people with long-term health conditions into activity is critical in improving overall wellbeing and management of their condition.

This has resulted in the 5Is being designed to identify what makes a positive physical activity experience for those with long-term health conditions.

The 5I's

• Individualised: putting the individual at the heart of everything.
• Integrated: strive to have a seamless, integrated offer between health, sport and physical activity for people with long-term conditions to be more active.
• Influencers: recognise there are a range of people influencing how active a person with a long-term condition may be.
• Inclusive: ensuring opportunities for physical activity are inclusive for people with long-term conditions.
• Informed: everyone is informed of the benefits and opportunities of being more active with a long-term condition.

The 4 key sector changes

• Support: co-creating the journey, recognise the importance of peer-to-peer support and make every appointment count.
• Access to activities: evidence-based, individualised, inclusive activities that are appropriate for people of different ability and skill levels and remove bureaucratic barriers.
• Strengthening the system: train and educate professionals, develop an inclusive workforce that is representative of the communities they serve.
• Communication: inclusive, smart and fun communication that highlights the benefits of activity and moving more.

The project was also delivered in partnership with the Office for Health Improvement and Disparities, the Richmond Group of Charities, and Clever Together.

Click here to see the full guidance.