Healthwise

HEALTHWISE: PHYSICAL ACTIVITY REFERRAL SCHEME (PARS)

PARS introduces individuals to the benefits of physical activity in order to help manage and improve existing medical conditions. PARS aims to encourage people of all abilities to become and remain more active which should in turn improve knowledge, skills, confidence and improve an individual’s health and wellbeing.

The Better Health Team provide information and support with physical activity and healthy lifestyles. They monitor progress and adjust individual’s physical activity programmes accordingly to ensure they are on track to reach their goals.

For details on how to obtain a referral and register as a Healthwise member please find further information below.

WHO IS PARS FOR?

The programme is for Lewisham residents or patients from a Lewisham GP surgery. It is designed to assist people who are currently inactive with medical conditions or other specialist requirements that prevent them from entering mainstream exercise.

Common reasons for referral:

  • High blood pressure
  • Diabetes
  • Asthma
  • Circulatory / respiratory diseases
  • Depression and anxiety

WHAT ACTIVITIES ARE AVAILABLE?

PARS provides members with a wide range of classes and exercise options to suit all abilities. A qualified GP Referral Instructor can help select suitable classes tailored to an individual’s medical conditions and needs. A physical activity programme may include some of the following:

  • Gym based sessions- independent or supervised
  • Group exercise options
  • Water-based exercise

HOW CAN THE BETTER HEALTH TEAM SUPPORT?

The Better Health Team can:

  • assess and monitor progress, providing suitable physical activity for your condition
  • motivate and encourage you during your activity programme to achieve your goals
  • advise you on how to exercise safely and with confidence
  • provide assistance to exercise independently
  • provide support and answer your questions

To see more about our programme and the imapct it's had on people, you can watch our YouTube video https://youtu.be/xQpdffni0wU

INCLUSION CRITERIA

  • London Borough of Lewisham Resident or registered with a GP surgery in Lewisham.
  • Over 18 Years Old.
  • Medical condition meets the inclusion criteria.
  • Ready to make a change (Pre-contemplation, contemplation phase).
  • Physically inactive (<30 minutes per week/ not an existing gym member within the last 6 months).

HOW TO APPLY

If you are interested in PARS, please speak to your GP or Practice Nurse who will authorise your request. Once your GP has provided us with your referral form, a member of our Healthwise Team will be in contact to begin the process.