Mayor launches £7 million plan to get region moving

A new wellbeing initiative is being rolled out across York and North Yorkshire to help communities become healthier and more connected.

The £7 million ‘Moving Forward’ campaign, led by mayor of York and North Yorkshire David Skaith, aims to boost physical activity, improve mental health and create stronger community links across the region.

Developed in partnership with local organisations, the programme focuses on five key areas – movement, activity and sport, active travel, men’s mental health and connected to the outdoors – to tackle issues such as isolation, inactivity and unequal access to opportunities.

The first stage of funding, totalling £2.75 million, will be directed towards projects that encourage more women and girls to take part in sport, support inclusive activities for disabled people, as well as promote early intervention for health and wellbeing. 

Officials say the investment will also help reduce rural isolation and anti-social behaviour while creating new training and development opportunities in the sector.

Mayor Skaith said: “The health and wellbeing of our communities is at the heart of everything we do and has been my priority since day one. 

“Empowering our communities to create more opportunities to move and be together is a key way we’re going to deliver healthy and thriving communities across York and North Yorkshire.

“Sport changed my life, and I want as many people as possible to have that same opportunity.  

“I know the impact that keeping moving has on our mental health, but in our region, too many people face barriers to accessing sport and activity, especially women and girls and disabled people.   

“Over 30 per cent of adults do less than 30 minutes of exercise a week, and over 60 per cent are overweight or obese. 

“That contributes towards preventable long-term ill health.

“Moving Forward is about backing people across York and North Yorkshire to build the healthy and thriving communities they deserve.” 

North Yorkshire Sport will oversee delivery of the fund, ensuring projects are tailored to local needs. 

David Watson, chief executive of North Yorkshire Sport and chair of the Sports Steering Group, added: “The £2.75 million Movement, Activity and Sport Fund is a major investment in York and North Yorkshire’s health and wellbeing, reducing inequalities, building stronger communities and increasing opportunities to be active.  

“North Yorkshire Sport is delighted to be working alongside the Combined Authority to help more people, especially those facing barriers, access inclusive opportunities for movement, activity and sport.   

“Our close working relationship and shared goals will ensure the fund transforms communities across our region, creating lasting opportunities for health, connection, inclusion and economic development.”  

Looking to promote your product/service to SME businesses in your region? Find out how Bdaily can help →