Agenda item

The Chairman introduced the deep dive part of the meeting which focused on the theme Sport, Physical Activity, Parks and Open Spaces.

Cassie Bridger, Assistant Director Greenspaces and Leisure spoke about the developments in the borough in relation to promoting physical health and sports.

The Board noted the progress update on the establishment of the Fit and Active Barnet Partnership Board which includes representation from internal and external stakeholders.

Board Members welcomed the update on the investment towards leisure centres which has enabled two centres to be opened recently at New Barnet Leisure Centre and Barnet Copthall Leisure Centre.

Ms Bridger noted that there has been high levels of interest and demand for the facilities.

Following a presentation on the GLL contract, the Board noted the support requirements around:

-        Increasing the levels of awareness for adult weight management and diabetes

-        Access to network groups and different ways of encouraging uptake

Janet Djomba, Public Health Strategist updated the Board on the Healthy Heritage Walks and Mayors Golden KM (MGK) initiatives.

The Chairman welcomed a teacher and children from Underhill School who were one of the first schools to engage in MGK.

The pupils informed the Board about the ways in which sport activities have been incorporated into their daily activities and their involvement with MGK and its benefits. This in turn has also led to great results and trophies being won by pupils in sports competitions.

The Board commended the achievements and discussed ways in which other schools and teachers can be encouraged to promote further physical activity.

Ms Sandra Renton, patient from St. Andrew’s Medical Centre spoke about her experience and the health benefits of Practice Walks.

The Board welcomed the presentation and encouraged further promotion of Practice Walks through for example notice boards as a way to increase uptake and healthier lifestyles.

Rachel Hodge, Public Health delivered a presentation on Active Travel and ways in which this can be encouraged. The Board also received a presentation on the development of digital App that encourages active travel through behaviour change theory.

Councillor Richard Cornelius welcomed the presentation and highlighted the importance of ensuring that cycling safety is taken into account at all times.

Officers noted the suggestion and stated that work will commence with the transport team to consider this issue and make suggestions for safer cycling routes.

Following a suggestion from Dr Clare Stephens, Officers noted that work will commence to develop and test safe rug sacks for use during cycling.

The Chairman welcomed Tony Lewis, Chief Executive Barnet Youth Zone who spoke about the high number of young people who have joined and participated in Youth Zone activities which includes sport, physical activity, theatre and dance programmes.

Ms Matthews, Chief Operating Officer Barnet CCG noted the presentation and highlighted the associated mental health benefits of the various programmes and activities offered at Youth Zone.

The Board requested that a future meeting of the HWBB take place at Barnet Youth Zone.

It was RESOLVED:

1.     That the Health and Wellbeing Board noted the progress which has been made by the Council and partners in working towards improving levels of physical activity in Barnet.

2.     That the Board noted the future priorities to sustain and further improve physical activity in Barnet.