20 Aug New GP Exercise Referral Scheme Launched at Brentwood Centre
Brentwood residents living with long-term health or medical conditions can now access a new health-boosting service at the Brentwood Centre.
From Monday 19 August 2024, the centre will begin accepting referrals for its newly launched GP Exercise Referral scheme.
This initiative, introduced by local leisure operator Everyone Active in partnership with Brentwood Borough Council, aims to support individuals in improving their overall health and increasing physical activity levels in a safe, supportive environment.
The scheme offers participants a comprehensive 12-week free introduction to exercise, including a health screening and personalised advice. All activities will be supported by certified exercise professionals, ensuring a tailored approach to each individual’s needs.
By introducing this brand-new service, the Brentwood Centre seeks to promote the benefits of physical activity, create long-term behaviour change and provide a welcoming space for residents to become more active.
This marks the first time such a programme has been available in Brentwood for more than four years, addressing a long-standing need in the community.
The service will offer a range of activities including gym workouts, swimming and some classes. Participants will be provided with information and advice on the most suitable type of activity for them in their initial appointment.
Shaun Beagle, Everyone Active’s Area Contract Manager across Brentwood, said: “We are thrilled to launch the GP Exercise Referral scheme at the Brentwood Centre.
“This programme has been eagerly anticipated by both our own team and Brentwood Borough Council, and we recognise its potential to greatly benefit the health and wellbeing of our local community.
“The introduction of this scheme will open up more opportunities for local residents to engage with our facility and take advantage of our excellent resources. We’ve brought on board a dedicated GP Exercise Referral colleague who is actively reaching out to local GP surgeries to raise awareness and build partnerships for this vital programme.”
Councillor Dr Tim Barrett, Chair of Brentwood Borough Council’s Housing, Health & Community Committee said, “We are delighted to support the launch of the GP Exercise Referral scheme at the Brentwood Centre. This initiative reflects our commitment to improving the health and wellbeing of Brentwood residents by providing them with accessible, high-quality resources. The scheme will play a vital role in helping those with long-term conditions to improve their fitness levels in a safe and supportive environment. It’s a significant step forward in promoting healthier lifestyles in our community.”
The scheme will be managed using ReferAll’s data management platform, which Everyone Active uses across its leisure facilities in the UK. This system will allow for real-time tracking of referrals, uptake and completion rates, as well as participant outcomes in areas such as physical activity levels, wellbeing and behavior modification.
The GP Exercise Referral scheme at the Brentwood Centre begins accepting referrals today, Monday 19 August 2024. Residents who believe they could benefit from this programme should speak to their GP or healthcare professional about a referral.
The Brentwood Centre has a range of facilities including a gym, two swimming pools, a group fitness studio and holistic studio.
For more information about the GP Exercise Referral scheme and the facilities at the Brentwood Centre, please visit: www.everyoneactive.com/centre/the-brentwood-centre/
