Local services

Local services

Healthier You is part of the NHS England’s national diabetes prevention programme. You can refer yourself online or be referred through your GP or healthcare professional if you meet the eligibility criteria. Part of the programme is focused around physical activity and they run group physical activity sessions and advice.

Sessions are held at various locations with times to suit you, including day, evenings and weekends. Have a look at their website to find out more and what areas sessions are running in.

Walking groups

Many councils support local walking groups which are a great way of getting out, meeting new people and becoming more active. Have a look at your local council website to find out what groups are available in your area.

Park run

Parkruns are free, weekly, community events all around the world. Saturday morning events are 5k and take place in parks and open spaces. On Sunday mornings, there are 2k junior parkruns for children aged four to 14.

Parkrun is a positive, welcoming and inclusive experience where there is no time limit and no one finishes last. Everyone is welcome to come along, whether you walk, jog, run, volunteer or spectate. Have a look at their website to see if a parkrun is available near you.

Our Parks

Our Parks is an initiative to bring free group exercise classes, led by experienced and fully qualified instructors to parks near you in partnership with Councils and Local Authorities. The classes are designed for all ability levels and ages and take place in various locations across England. To find out if there are any free classes running in your area, have a look at the Our Parks website.

It’s also worth contacting your local authority as many offer initiatives with leisure centres such as free exercise classes or a free swim on certain days of the week to encourage people to get fit.

Many authorities also have outdoor gyms or basketball, football or tennis courts that can be used free of charge. You may also be entitled to free leisure services if you’re under 16, over 60 or receive benefits. To find your local council and see what initiatives they offer click here.