The Ribble Valley is a large geographical area where we are exploring physical activity and rural isolation. We are currently working through local assets, schools, GP practices, field nurses, the parish council and the farming community to take a ‘whole village approach’ to physical activity. Investing in a local champion through our shared role model, the Ribble Valley team tested an alternative investment approach, using crowdfunding to generate equipment for a play library in a local park as well as engage community members. Relationship with the parish council in particular, supported the success of the play library, which led to multi-generational increased physical activity in the park as well as community care activities such as litter picking. We found that having a local champion who is invested in physical activity generates an enthusiasm to be part of a physical activity movement.
We set out with the aim of gaining a better understanding of the complex barriers to physical activity in a rural setting. Dunsop Bridge, together with the villages of Newton and Slaidburn they make up the ward of Bowland, known locally as The Hodder Valley. The Ribble Valley consists of 27 wards, with Bowland being the most sparsely populated.Bus services in the area are limited and the nearest town is over 10 miles away, making accessibility to physical activity options more limiting, costly, and time restricting. There is one GP surgery in the ward 5 miles from Dunsop Bridge, the nearest Sports Centre is 9 miles away and at least a 20 minute drive on unlit country roads – the journey is not easy in the winter months when you are more likely to need an indoor facility.
We are testing an alternative investment approach, which is different to the ‘traditional’ approach of setting up sessions in a village, thinking that more provision is the solution. Due to low population and types of work (farming, rural jobs, fencing, walling etc) simply putting on events or classes, does not see a sustainable or adequate turn out. Yearly fluctuations due to the farming calendars, varied working hours, energy and trust is why a different approach is needed. Smaller, localised, almost a sympathetic nod to traditional village life (which is what makes it so wonderful). Through time and trust we have been able to talk, trial, and be patient, so that what is implemented will be sustainable. It is apparent that infrastructure and community play major roles within isolated rural villages. A big learning point has been conversation, by being in a place over organised meetings this has allowed a less threatening approach.
Rossendale Walking maps, Hyndburn Park engagement events, Blackburn with Darwen Witton Park & Greenhouse Project, are some examples where relationship building to make the most of the physical environment has been a stimulus for doing something different in a place across our 6 local authorities. To find out more take a look at our most recent Sharing the Learning report submitted to Sport England HERE