Shropshire secures national funding to tackle inactivity and health inequalities
Shropshire has been selected as a key site for a significant national investment designed to help residents become more active and reduce deep-rooted health inequalities across the county.
Energize Shropshire, Telford & Wrekin, acting on behalf of the Shropshire Integrated Place Partnership, has secured the funding from Sport England to support those who face the greatest barriers to physical activity, including young people, the elderly, and communities experiencing social or economic disadvantage.
The initiative recognises that being physically active is one of the most effective ways to prevent ill-health and help local communities thrive. As part of a broader commitment, Sport England is investing £250 million into specific locations across the country by 2028. Following a successful application, Shropshire has been confirmed as a recipient of more than £500,000 to drive these local improvements.
The Shropshire Integrated Place Partnership brings together a wide range of stakeholders, including Shropshire Council, the NHS Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin Integrated Care System, and various partners from the voluntary, community, and social enterprise sector. This collaborative approach ensures that the total funding award of £510,510 will be used strategically to embed physical activity as a core component of youth engagement, the management of long-term health conditions, and the creation of healthier local environments.
Pete Ezard, Chief Executive at Energize Shropshire, Telford & Wrekin, said:
“We’re delighted to be leading on this funding award on behalf of Shropshire. This funding and opportunity will provide the time and investment needed across both a systemic and local level to explore what is required to better support the people and communities across Shropshire who are experiencing the most inequalities.
"Furthermore, to have equitable opportunity to gaining the benefits of movement for their physical and mental wellbeing. The collaboration with partners involved in this award will ensure the funding creates the evidence needed in engaging and supporting those most in need.”
Councillor Bernie Bentick, Shropshire Council’s Cabinet member for health and public protection and Vanessa Whatley, Interim Chief Nursing Officer for NHS Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin, co-chairs of Shropshire’s Health and Wellbeing Board said:
“This funding is a significant opportunity for Shropshire to strengthen how we support residents to live healthier lives. By working together across organisations, we can create environments that make it easier for people to be active every day.”
Councillor Bentick added:
“Physical activity is an essential part of improving and maintaining overall health for everyone. This grant is very welcome and will help those who may struggle with exercise to be active and so improve their wellbeing."
