News

Basildon Council's 'Get Out There' scheme, the project encouraging residents to take up a sport or activity, has been highlighted by the Institute of Sport and Recreation Managements (ISRM) as one of the best examples of partnership working and tackling obesity levels in the country.

The ongoing scheme has seen a number of successes over the past few months including the 'Get Back Into' initiative, 'On Ya Bike' promotions and the Woodland Challenge. Numbers have continued to increase and the ISRM feel that the scheme is an example of partnership working at its best. The Chartered Society of Physiotherapy has also added to the success of the project, by adding its own advice in the "Move for Health" series.

Representatives from the Council have been invited to the organisations annual conference in November to present to the attendees and demonstrate how the scheme has enhanced the Basildon District and is an example of best practice for others to follow.

Ralph Riley, Chief Executive of IRSM said "The ISRM supports the work of 'Get Out There' in bringing opportunities for sport and physical activity to those who can benefit most through meaningful participation. ISRM members based in local communities providing sport and recreational services know first hand the difference that sport can make in peoples lives."

Councillor Kevin Blake, Cabinet Member for Leisure and Arts, said "Basildon Council are proud of the leisure projects we make available to the local community. The 'Get out there' scheme has continued to go from strength to strength and I think that the fact the ISRM have highlighted this as an example of best practice shows the quality and worth of schemes such as this."