Welsh Public Health Conference 2013 October 2013 Carmarthenshire NERS Case Studies

NERS in Carmarthenshire 2011/12 = 1380 referrals (2006/07=156) Scheme completion rate= 72% Exit survey/self reported outcomes >70% had improved health & wellbeing and felt happier > 60% had more energy/walking better/enjoy meeting new people >80% stated that they had achieved one or more of their goals Exercise Opportunities 4 Leisure centre's, 5 outreach venues, 80 sessions per week = average 680 visits

NERS Case studies EP EP was referred with diabetes, renal problems, and back pain, her GP felt her back pain was related to her being overweight. Her main goal was to lose weight and increase her walking distances. EP’s measurements show fantastic improvement during the 16 weeks she participated in NERS. 1 st week assessment 16 th week assessment Weight: 121kg Weight: 112kg Waist circumference:134cm Waist circumference:121cm 6MWT: Not well enough to walk 6MWT: 400 meters We received a letter from her renal physician consultant 6 months after completing scheme stating that EP had lost another 9 kg and that they had seen beneficial effects on her diabetes, high BP and kidney problems, resulting in reductions in her medication.

NERS Case studies IB (Falls prevention pathway) “Before attending the strength and balance classes I was a regular faller. I had lost all my confidence. Since starting the classes my balance has improved and there has been a marked increase in my confidence. I am now attending social events and gatherings that prior to the classes I would not have attended” MM (Cardiac Rehabilitation pathway) “Following a Heart Attack in April 2010 as part of the rehabilitation I attended the referral scheme at Carmarthen Leisure Centre. It has changed my life completely. My health is better now than it was prior to my heart attack. I am no longer on Beta blockers, I feel fitter and stronger. I would encourage anybody to attend the referral scheme- it has improved my life 100%.”

Referrals comments/feedback “My blood pressure is lower and so is my cholesterol. I have lost two stone and cant believe I was 59 when I discovered the real benefits of exercise. Thanks to all the instructors for their continuing patience and support” “Felt safe, clear instructions and very enjoyable” “I have enjoyed the scheme. It is very good exercising with people of similar abilities. One can be motivated to push yourself without being intimidated. The instructors are great and assist with any queries or problems” “I feel a lot better after coming to the sessions, after my operation I was feeling weak but I am gaining strength every week” “I have recently had a total knee replacement but through working with the instructors the exercises have allowed me to regain strength and mobility in my leg” “A wonderful scheme. I enjoyed the sessions and hope to continue in the future, the good instructors have ones well being and benefits in sight at all times. Highly recommend the scheme” “The scheme has really been a life saver. It has totally transformed my life not just physically but emotionally”

Thank you / Diolch Simon Davies NERS Co-ordinator Carmarthenshire Telephone: Jeannie Wyatt-Williams National Exercise Referral Coordinator for Wales E: T: M: