You are currently viewing a topic page that is part of the Cluster Planning Support Portal (CPSP). Each topic page comprises (a) topic-specific strategic context; (b) signposting to data analyses relating to local health needs; and (c) improvement action options.
A. Strategic context
Consider the national strategic context for prioritising improvement action in this area (in conjunction with your health board’s annual plan and regional partnership board’s area plan). The strategic importance of a given topic is key to thinking about how our actions align with local or national initiatives and policies to deliver collective and measurable impacts on population health.
- Physical activity promotes well-being, physical and mental health, prevents disease, improves social connectedness and quality of life, provides economic benefits and contributes towards 13 sustainable development goals (Global action plan on physical activity 2018–2030, WHO 2018); low physical activity is a behavioural risk factor contributing to avoidable disability-adjusted life years (DALYs).
- The Active Travel (Wales) Act 2013 (link) and the Wellbeing of Future Generations (Wales) Act 2015 (link) promote sustainability through active travel (such as walking and cycling); other benefits include reduction of harmful exhaust and carbon emissions and improved air quality.
- Less than 50% of adults in the most deprived fifth of Wales achieve the recommended physical activity guidelines compared to over 60% in the least deprived fifth of Wales; attainment of guideline levels is lower in Wales than in England or Scotland (Health and its determinants in Wales; PHW 2018).
- A healthier Wales: our plan for health and social care 2018 (WG 2018) highlights the need for a shift towards greater prevention and early intervention.
- Healthy weight: healthy Wales (WG 2019) is the long-term strategy to prevent and reduce obesity in Wales; the strategy includes encouragement of physical activity.
B. Data analyses
Consider statistical indicators and other evidence on population needs to compare your own position to that of others, both within and without your health board (where possible). If relevant, consider any additional local data requirements that might contribute to an informed decision on action.
- Indicator: Description of a recommended indicator relating to this topic, which would inform population needs assessment.
- Data source and link: Who produces the analysis and where to find the most current analysis on their website (NB the most current analysis may not utilise the most recent data).
- Documentation link: Where to find general advice on interpreting the analysis e.g. what is/ is not included, any caveats, etc.
C. Improvement actions
Identifying priority actions involves seeking and appraising evidence on effective and cost-effective improvement options. The below options are a starting point for considering interventions at practice, cluster/ professional collaborative or pan-cluster level. The make-up of your cluster and the stakeholders you work with is likely to influence the type of actions you take.
Reviewed by: BM/VT | Review date: 06/08/22 | Topic code: BFR-003