Integrating physical activity into mental health pathways

Summary 

• Client: Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board (BCUHB)
• Project: iCAN Physical Activity Pathway Development 
• Delivered by: Move Consulting 
• Focus: integrating physical activity into mental health pathway design

Context

Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board identified that routes from community-based mental health and wellbeing hubs into local physical activity opportunities were fragmented, inconsistent or, in some areas, did not exist.

This made it difficult for iCAN teams to confidently and consistently connect people with suitable local support.

The Health Board wanted to develop a clearer pathway that would:

• support person-centred and trauma-informed practice; 
• clarify the roles of mental health, physical activity and community partners; 
• establish consistent criteria for local physical activity opportunities; and 
• provide practical resources to support implementation. 

What we did

Move Consulting delivered a structured review and co-development process, bringing together evidence, local insight and the experience of partners across mental health, public health, physical activity and community services.

We reviewed existing information and engaged with key stakeholders to understand current arrangements, local needs and opportunities for improvement.

Through collaborative workshops and consultation, we supported partners to:

• agree a shared vision for the pathway; 
• develop and refine the pathway model; 
• clarify roles and responsibilities; 
• identify workforce and resource requirements; and 
• establish criteria for safe and appropriate physical activity provision.