5x30 - Devon

Devon Case Study – Community Sport

Increasing participation

“5 X 30”

Why was it important for us to get involved? Sport England wanted to support this project as, although it works with the whole population, it specifically targets people with mental health issues, people aged 50 and over, vulnerable young people, the overweight or obese and those on low incomes. What is 5X30? 5X30 is the physical activity of a health promotion project, which encourages and supports people to be more active in their everyday life. The title of the project is derived from the World Health Organisation's recommendation that you should do at least 30 minutes of physical activity 5 times a week.

For more information: Esther Richmond Project Co-ordinator +44 (0) 1884 234390 Email: [email protected] Website: www.5x30.org

“Without the funding, the volunteers would not have taken the training course as it would have been too expensive” (Crediton Junior Squash Club Representative)

“When you are used to being independent, the fear of falling can turn your life upside down, and make you a prisoner in your own home. Now I am able to go out, I feel less alone and can see my 5X30 is a 3-year local partnership project, friends.” (Elderly individual in the area who had a history of falls and a fear of which employs 7 members of staff who walking alone - she joined a seated work within local communities to reduce exercise group) barriers, teach the benefits of physical activity and develop physical activity opportunities. The team provides hands- “Exercise is important to me because I had on support and motivation to establish a stroke a while ago; it helps my arms and new physical activity opportunities in the legs” (Lisa, participant at The Puzzle local communities. Tree Centre for people with learning difficulties) What exactly does this project offer the community? “I think it’s fabulous that the sports hall is • 10 new multi-hubs created. being used again. It's such an amazing • The re-opening of a sports hall, which facility, it would be a shame for it to go to had not been used for 12 years. waste. It’s not everyday that a hidden • A programme of 5X30 Network Events, sports hall is found!” (Kelly Phillips, Events Co-ordinator, Stoodleigh Court) which have engaged 151 organisations. • 85 individuals trained to deliver "He really enjoys the sessions and is a physical activities. much happier person for playing. He has • 86 new physical activity opportunities developed his fitness and has made good friendships" (Mum of a vulnerable created. young person who participated in taster rugby sessions and then joined local rugby club)