Cornwall Embarks on Innovative Active Travel Scheme to Foster Healthier Lifestyles

Cornwall has been selected as one of 13 areas across the nation to spearhead a pioneering pilot scheme designed to promote active travel among adults. With an investment of approximately £840,000 from the government, Cornwall Council aims to elevate the adoption of healthier transportation options such as walking, cycling, and wheeling, as a daily practice.

The initiative, known as the Active Travel Social Prescribing (ATSP) pilot, is set to transform the way residents of Cornwall approach their daily commutes and travels. By emphasising active travel, which includes walking, cycling, and the use of wheelchairs, the scheme seeks to integrate physical activity into the everyday lives of the community members.

At the heart of this program is the concept of ‘social prescribing,’ a process through which individuals are connected to local activities, groups, and services that enhance health and well-being. Professionals, including GPs, can refer individuals to this program, aiming to make a significant impact on public health.

The pilot will initially concentrate its efforts in three specific areas: Penzance, Bodmin, and St Austell, including the China Clay Areas. To facilitate this, Cornwall Council has appointed three Health Improvement Practitioners (HIPs). These practitioners are tasked with offering personalised support to eligible adults, helping them overcome any barriers to adopting active forms of travel.

Moreover, the council is extending an invitation to community groups and organisations within the pilot areas to apply for funding. This funding is intended to support activities and provisions that encourage the adoption of active travel methods.

Cllr Andy Virr, the cabinet member for adults and public health at Cornwall Council, expressed enthusiasm about the project: “It’s great news that Cornwall has been chosen to deliver one of the 13 national Active Travel Social Prescribing pilots. Switching to an active form of travel in day-to-day life will not only help the environment, it also has huge health and wellbeing benefits”.

Natalie Russell, the Project Manager for Active Travel Social Prescribing at Public Health Cornwall, highlighted the program’s aim to make cycling, walking, and wheeling a staple in adults’ daily routines. The program offers free one-to-one support from Health Improvement Practitioners, focusing on connecting individuals with existing walking and cycling provisions.

The pilot targets adults registered with a GP in the three specified locations, particularly those who are in poor health, unemployed, over 50, or living with a disability. Community groups or organisations interested in facilitating active travel can apply for funding through the Active Travel Social Prescribing Fund – Cornwall Council. The initiative supports a broad range of proposals, including cycling or e-bike hire, safety gear, bike maintenance courses, cycle storage, and walking groups, all aimed at removing barriers to inclusion and accessibility.

For more detailed information or to apply for support, individuals and organisations are encouraged to visit the dedicated webpage on the Cornwall Council website.