Tackling Inactivity in Children and Young People in the Community

This event organised by the Children and Young People Task Group will take place on Tuesday 25 March from 1.30pm to 4.30pm at the University of London Union, Malet Street, London WC1E 7HY.

Recently published evidence shows inactivity significantly heightens the risk of developing chronic illnesses. A study in The Lancet, published in 2012, highlighted how inactivity is responsible for 17 percent of premature deaths in the UK every year and shortens the lifespan by three to five years.  

In a UKactive report entitled Turning the Tide, available online at www.ukactive.com/turningthetide, in some parts of the UK more than 40 percent of the adult population is classed as inactive and 12.5 million people in England are currently failing to raise their heart level for more than half an hour per week over a 28-day period.

Activity levels in children and young people are also low, with the Health Survey England reporting that 21 percent of boys and 16 percent of girls aged 5 to 15 met guidelines of 60 minutes physical activity per day in 2012.

This event will look at a number of solutions aimed at tackling inactivity amongst children and young people in your communities, as well as illustrate the importance of ensuring strong links between active travel, sport, leisure and physical activity delivering as part of a local public health strategy.

The event will provide delegates with an opportunity to hear some of the evidence and context, the potential solutions and good practice to take on board when considering how, within the constraints and pressures.

Places are limited. To register email beelin.baxter@dh.gsi.gov.uk.