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A report outlining the findings of a review of the Exercise by Referral (EbR) programme in Derbyshire has been published.
The review was conducted between July 2024 and January 2025 by Move Consulting, who analysed data and consulted with key stakeholders, to understand potential for reducing complexity, identifying opportunities to improve and make services more accessible.
Click to read the Full Report and the Executive Summary.
The report includes a number of findings and considerations, including:
- National Context & Best Practices
a. Physical activity is a proven tool for managing long-term conditions and improving public health.
b. National policy emphasises shifting towards prevention rather than treatment.
c. Emerging models suggest more holistic, community-integrated physical activity pathways. - Exercise by Referral in Derbyshire
a. The current system operates across eight districts with varying service structures.
b. There is a strong demand for improved integration between healthcare and physical activity providers.
c. Challenges include inconsistent service levels, workforce capacity issues and data collection gaps. - Strategic Considerations
a. Establish a unified vision for EbR in Derbyshire.
b. Define clear service principles (e.g., collaboration, accessibility, person-centred care).
c. Improve data collection and monitoring to track long-term impacts.
The report suggests two approaches: ‘Adapt’ to strengthen the existing model and ‘Adopt’ to develop a holistic physical activity pathway – or a combination of both.
Click to view a summary slide deck which include the 21 recommendations.
Based on the report and recommendations, four key themes have emerged which warrant increased focus. A summary theme is outlined below:
System Integration and Collaboration
A need for greater system integration and collaboration to create a more effective, equitable and accessible Exercise by Referral system. Read a summary here
Service Implementation
Service implementation needs consideration to ensure it is consistent, accessible, effective and aligned with both local needs and national best practices. Read a summary here
Workforce Development
There is a need for workforce development, with a standardised workforce framework, an expansion of training offered to deliverers and better training for healthcare providers. Read a summary here
Data Collection and Analysis
Data collection needs to be improved along with monitoring and analysis to enhance the effectiveness and sustainability of EbR. Read a summary here