Walking - the Silver Bullet to Health and Wellbeing ( breakout presentation )

Abstract

Background The Get Ireland Walking (GIW) initiative, developed by Sport Ireland in collaboration with numerous national partner organisations, delivers the Active Community Walking Programme (ACWP) in socially and economically disadvantaged communities across the Republic of Ireland. The purpose of this document is to describe a national community walking programme that impacts on the physical, mental and social health of participants, their families and the communities in which they reside. The expansion of this walking program is a specific action within Ireland's National Physical Activity Plan. Description of Program The ACWP aims to help communities develop organised walking groups. The government funded program is delivered through the Local Sports Partnership network. Through training, strategic planning, partnerships and funding mechanisms the program aims to empower communities by providing resources, promoting exercise adherence and supporting sustainable walking communities. In 2017, GIW will support over 100 new walking groups that target persons socially marginalized, persons with physical or intellectual disabilities and persons living in areas of disadvantage. Outcomes Male participation in the ACWP has been low ( Implications A new intervention specifically designed for men has been developed between GIW and the Irish Men’s Shed Association. The outcomes of this intervention will be presented at Walk 21 Calgary. Through participant feedback and partnership input, GIW is continuing to expand it’s programs throughout the Republic of Ireland. GIW has a lead role to play in supporting the Department of Health to achieve an increase in population PA levels as set out in specific actions areas within the National Physical Activity Plan. Through an upstream approach GIW aims to empower communities at a local level with toolkits and resources to support them to achieve their goals.