Be Active For Health

People walking through the forest

About the programme

The Be Active for Health programme offers support for people in our community who have long-term health conditions or are recovering from surgery. It includes services such as the Physical Activity Referral Scheme (PARS), Cardiac Rehabilitation and the Be Active Health Network. These programmes help people become more active, make healthier choices and improve their physical health.

Physical Activity Referral Scheme (PARS)

PARS is a GP referral programme that helps people become more active and live healthier lives. It can help reduce the risk of some health conditions and support better health and wellbeing.

Participants are supported by our friendly PARS team, who are Level 3 qualified in Exercise Referral. The programme helps people take their first steps towards being more active in a safe and supported way.

Each programme lasts 12 weeks. During this time, participants get:

Unlimited access to the pool, health suite and fitness suite
Access to Be Active for Life classes
8 weeks of specialist PARS classes
Weekly outdoor activities that are social and enjoyable

The PARS programme is available at Newry Leisure Centre, Down Leisure Centre, Kilkeel Leisure Centre and Newcastle Centre.

Cost: £21.80 (concessionary rates available).

If you would like to find out more about PARS in your area, please contact: pars@nmandd.org

To read more about the programme, click here

To watch our short video, click here

Cardiac Rehabilitation

The Cardiac Rehabilitation Phase IV programme supports people who are recovering from a heart-related event. It is available at Newry Leisure Centre and Ballymote Health and Wellbeing Centre.

This is an 8-week programme that focuses on improving heart health through safe, supervised exercise. It also provides information about heart disease, healthy lifestyle choices and emotional wellbeing.

Sessions are led by trained cardiac rehabilitation instructors. Participants complete exercises in a safe environment and receive weekly health checks, including heart rate and blood pressure.

The programme is referral only and is for people who have completed Cardiac Rehab Phase III. Referrals are made by Health Trust cardiac teams to the Council’s cardiac team.

The aim of the programme is to help people build strength, develop healthy habits and reduce the risk of future heart problems.

To find out more about Cardiac Rehab, email: pars@nmandd.org

Walking For All

The new ‘Walking for All’ programme is now underway, offering guided walks across the Newry, Mourne and Down District Council area. Delivered by Outscape and supported by PEACEPLUS, the initiative is being rolled out in partnership with organisations across Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. The programme aims to support health and wellbeing and encourage social inclusion. It also provides a welcoming way for people to get active, meet others and enjoy their local area.

If you’d like to play an active role in your community, why not become a Walk Leader? Training is available for anyone interested in leading short, regular walks in their local area. To find out more or get involved, contact arlene.johnston@nmandd.org or visit www.walkingforall.com.

Be Active Health Network

The Be Active Health Network is a friendly weekly social group. It offers a relaxed space to meet others and learn more about local health and wellbeing services.

Once a month, a guest from a health or community service attends to share information, advice and support. You can enjoy a cup of tea, ask questions and find out what help is available in your area.

You can also meet the Council’s health team, social care partners and local charities.

No appointment is needed and the sessions are free. Everyone is welcome.

Locations and times

Newry Leisure Centre
• Wednesdays, 12pm – 1.30pm

Down Leisure Centre
• Thursdays, 12pm – 1.30pm

For more information: pars@nmandd.org