Call for Community Champions to get Bucks active
A challenge to get Buckinghamshire active in 2016has been thrown down bythe County Council.
The council is looking for 38 volunteers across the county to champion Active Bucks, a fun programme launching in the Spring to help more people get more active more often.
These hand-picked Community Champions will need enthusiasm and motivation to try something new and to inspire others to do the same.
And they don’t need to be fitness fanatics, says Martin Phillips, Cabinet Member for Community Engagement and Public Health.
‘We’re looking for people with a passion to get others involved in something active,’ said Martin. ‘We’ll provide the training.’
Whether less usual pursuits like Nordic walking and tea dancing, or conventional walking and cycling, Martin says taking part in Active Bucks will demonstrate the benefit of moving around a bit more.
He said statistics showed that around 60% of older Buckinghamshire residentswould benefit from being more active, along with 79% of boys and 84% of girls.
‘We’re not talking about a three-mile hike every day,’ said Martin. ‘You could even get more active just by bending your knees more often to unload the dishwasher plate by plate!
‘But we’re keen to get the community working together to be more active, which is whyCommunity Champions will play such a vital part.’
They’ll promote localprojects in their local area,inspire local people to be more active, be the voice of local people about being more active, and network with like-minded people at training events.
In return they will receive personal development and training in skills such as basic marketing, activity management, and leadership.
And they will get time credits that can be exchanged for anything from a trip to the theatre, to a day watching cricket at Lord’s.
Dr Jane O’Grady, Buckinghamshire’s Director of Public Health said:
‘The community activities that will happen from Spring will be the chance to have more fun, make new friends, and improve our health. That’sa win all round.
‘Community Champions will be a key part of making this a real success.’
More details about becoming a Community Champion at http://www.buckscc.gov.uk/healthy-living/active-bucks/community-champions/