Community

If you think you are eligible for the scheme then you need to contact you GP practice and ask about being referred onto the programme.

Once referred onto the scheme by your GP, Practice Nurse or other Health Professional you will be contacted by us to book in for a consultation with a fitness instructor. The instructor will carry out some simple health checks, discuss your choice of activities and then write you an exercise programme specific to your goals.

The Activity on Referral scheme offers exercise sessions tailored to your individual needs and is offered at Belper Leisure Centre, Cripps Recreation Centre and Duston Sports Centre.

Activity on Referral is your introduction to exercise and lasts 12 weeks. Over the course of the programme you are encouraged to build up your weekly activity levels by attending at least 2 - 3 sessions each week.

Our Activity on Referral instructors have been trained to work with people with the health conditions and will know how your condition will affect exercise and what exercise you can do. They will therefore ensure that you are supported to exercise safely.

Your consultation meeting will take place at one of the following centres during the 12 weeks:

Please wear trainers and comfortable clothing – for example tracksuit bottoms or other loose trousers and no denim for gym / class based sessions. Please take along any relevant medication.

The instructors are trained to work with people who have health conditions similar to you, and will encourage you to work at a level suitable for your health and fitness level whilst still motivating you.

You will not be allowed to simply ‘bring a friend’ along to exercise, but it is fine to bring someone along with you to support you if you wish. This may be applicable to non-English speaking participants or people with carers. This person will not need to pay but cannot use any of the equipment.

At week 12 of the programme, you will have gained the confidence, knowledge, motivation and skills to exercise independently without the support of the Activity on Referral instructor. To continue with the benefits of exercise you should participate in 30 minutes of moderate exercise at least 5 times a week. At your final review, you will be provided with other activities you should continue with to maintain and develop your exercise levels. Finally, you will be given the opportunity to continue your membership at a discounted rate.

During the sessions you will learn how physical exercise can positively affect your health and well-being. You will have the opportunity to meet new people, understand your body’s needs and enjoy yourself.

To be eligible for the scheme, you must be over 16 (19 if in Belper), inactive, and have a medical condition that could benefit from exercise. You may qualify if you are:

Northampton resident Tinashe has shared his personal Activity on Referral journey to help promote the real difference it makes to the everyday lives of people.

“My GP asked me a few questions about my medical history. I told him one of them was high blood pressure which I know many people suffer from.” Tinashe said.

“He then referred me to Trilogy Active and the Activity on Referral programme. I want to say it has done wonders for me and it is ensuring that I achieve my goal.”

All applicants must complete and return a copy of the application form

All applications will be assessed by a panel and the applicant will be informed of their decision within 2 weeks, subject to any additional information that may be required.

Athletes must meet one of the following criteria

Athletes must be 11+ years of age at the time of application and be competing at a county/regional or academy standard and above in their sport. Athletes must provide written support from their club/coach/development squad manager confirming the standard of performance.