What is the Health Disability Activity Pathway?
The Health Disability Activity Pathway has been formed from a joint partnership between Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board (BCUHB) and Disability Sport Wales (DSW), and is supported by funding from Sport Wales Calls for Action.
The Pathway was created in response to an identified lack of communication between health and sport. Data protection legislation combined with the traditional invisibility of disabled communities, made it difficult for DSW and the sport network to target disabled people across North Wales, and to make them aware of physical activity and sporting opportunities.
As it is assumed that all disabled people access health care services at some stage in their lives, through this partnership, barriers can be removed to getting the message across to disabled people. We can also work towards increasing participation levels in physical activity and sport, which leads to people potentially attaining a better health status and reducing the need to use health services.
How does the Pathway work?
The partnership intends to increase awareness, understanding and consistency between the health sector and Disability Sport Network in North Wales. This will be achieved through a planned programme of education and upskilling of professionals in both areas. It aims to transform the way health sector staff approach health care and work towards a culture of health promotion, where encouraging exercise and participation in physical activity is a part of everyone’s core practice.
How do I access the Pathway?
Each referral will be contacted by a member of our team to discuss which participation opportunities are available. Initial contact will be via a phone call, but face-to-face meetings can be arranged as a follow up.
So far, we have worked with customers who have taken up a range of difference sports including wheelchair basketball and joining the gym in our Leisure Centres. The Pathway is open to all age ranges.
If you would like any more information, please contact Brett Jones, Community Health Manager activecommunities@dll.co.uk or visit the Health Disability Activity Pathway website https://www.hdapathway.co.uk/
How long does the scheme last for?
The scheme lasts from 4-32 weeks’ dependent on the referral reason. Session times will vary dependent on clients’ fitness levels but will last no longer than an hour. We have different activity sessions available dependent on site which include: gym based exercise, gentle circuits, chair based circuits, balance classes, outdoor exercise sessions (some are free), Tai Chi and water based exercise sessions. You are required to attend regular sessions and attend follow up consultations at 16 and 52 weeks.
Benefits of accessing the scheme:
- Manage weight and blood pressure
- Lower the risk of heart disease, stroke, and some cancers
- Reduce stress and anxiety
- Improve mental wellbeing and social confidence
- Boost energy, strength, mobility, and balance
For more information please contact your GP or our NERS team on DenbighshireNERS@dll.co.uk