Cumbrian GPs will now be able to issue social prescriptions for walking, wheeling and cycling thanks to almost £1.5 million of funding.
Dr Neil Hudson welcomed the Government investment which sees Cumbria County Council included as one of eleven local authorities in England to trial the scheme, aimed at improving mental and physical health.
The £12.7 million funding – of which Cumbria will receive £1,496,432 - will go towards a range of pilot schemes which include free bike loans, walking groups and adult cycle training.
Other schemes include all-ability cycling taster days where people who may not have cycled before can try to in a friendly environment, or walking and cycling mental health groups where people can connect with their communities as they get active.
The pilots must be delivered alongside improved infrastructure so people feel safe to cycle and walk.
Dr Neil Hudson, MP for Penrith and The Border, said:
“As an MP who is a vet, I think it’s so important we make decisions based on evidence, and the mental and physical benefits of being active are well recorded. This type of whole systems style of preventative medicine will lead to positive NHS benefits down the line and leave us all healthier as a county and nation.
“I commend the Government on its foresight and welcome the landmark funding for Cumbria. This really is a step – and pedal - in the right direction.”
Walking and Cycling Minister – and fellow Cumbrian MP – Trudy Harrison, added:
“Walking and cycling has so many benefits – from improving air quality in our communities to reducing congestion on our busiest streets.
“It also has an enormous positive impact on physical and mental health, which is why we have funded these projects which will get people across the country moving and ease the burden on our NHS.”
The pilots, a commitment in the government’s Gear Change plan published in 2020, aim to evaluate the impact of cycling and walking on an individual’s health, such as reduced GP appointments and reliance on medication due to more physical activity. For the first time, transport, active travel and health officials will work together towards a whole systems approach to health improvement and tackling health disparities.
