Activation Bolton

In Bolton there is a dramatic drop off of over 65’s taking part in physical activity. Our research tells us this can happen for many reasons. For example having caring responsibilities, failing health, lack of affordability or lack of transport to access activities. These are just some of the barriers that stop older people from being active. The bad news is that long term inactivity is one of the top 10 causes of early death. It is estimated to cost Greater Manchester’s Health and Social care services £26.7 million per year.  

This is why through Activation Bolton, we are awarding investments up £1,000 that can make an idea you may have - to help older people get active.

Our research shows us that people are more likely to take up activity when they:

• Experience a life trigger event. This could be a change in circumstances, a health event or a diagnosis that affects them or a loved one. 
• Are offered the chance to take up an activity that can give more structure to their week or balance to their life. This could be a weekly class or activity, or something that is available more than once a week. 
• Can take part in something that gives them social interaction and social contact with others. A place where they can see familiar faces, start to build friendships and become part of a wider friendship group.
• Can learn a new skill, get better at something or work towards a greater achievement.  They may also have the chance to take part in a competition or friendly tournament.

These are all points that you should bear in mind when submitting your idea. We know from our research that these motivating factors not only help people to start getting active but they also help them stay involved for longer.

Understanding attitudes and behaviours that affect activity levels

Activation Bolton is keen to ensure that all ideas and projects it invests in, meet the programme requirement of helping people to get active and stay active.

For this reason, the first phase of Activation Bolton involved a large piece of research and development, ‘Behavioural Insight’, carried out in partnership between Age UK Bolton and leading behavioural insights agency, So-Mo.  

The research involved talking to a large number of older people to really understand how people aged 55+ in Bolton feel about getting active and to identify the common barriers and any health, social, cultural or environmental factors that might stand between them and accessing a more healthy and active lifestyle.