National Exercise Referral Scheme (NERS)
The National Exercise Referral Scheme (NERS) is an evidenced based health intervention providing access to two tailored and supervised physical activity sessions per week.
The scheme lasts for up to 16 weeks and costs £3 per session.
It is designed for inactive adults who are either at risk of poor health or have a pre-existing medical condition, to provide opportunities to exercise that are fun, rewarding and that can be incorporated into everyday life.
The National Exercise Referral Scheme (NERS) is a Public Health Wales funded scheme. It is a chronic condition prevention and management programme which aims to improve the health and wellbeing of sedentary and inactive adults who are at risk of developing or who have an existing chronic condition.
It provides a 16-week programme of physical activity to individuals referred by NHS health professionals, using behaviour change techniques to embed positive physical activity habits.
Once referred, patients that meet the criteria are invited to their local leisure centre for an initial assessment with a qualified exercise referral professional. They will be offered a tailored, supervised exercise programme for 16 weeks and their progress will be reviewed at key points.
If you feel that you would benefit from the scheme, are 16 and over and are suitable to join then you need to speak to your GP/practice nurse/ health professional about being referred.
You can access the scheme at:
One of our Exercise Professionals will support you throughout your journey on the scheme. You will have an initial consultation, appropriate exercise will be prescribed, and you will have a review after 4 weeks and 16 weeks.
Upon completion, you will have a 16 week review during which we will find a suitable exit route for you. You also have the opportunity to take up the Ffit Conwy membership at a 40% discount.
Physical benefits could include:
- The heart and lungs become stronger and more efficient
- Muscular strength increases
- Joints become more stable
- The onset of osteoporosis can be delayed
- Body fat and excess weight may be reduced
- Relaxation and sleep might be improved
- Being better able to carry out the activities of daily living
- Feeling more alert and energetic
- Maintaining good posture
- Helping to normalise blood pressure
- Reduce risk of developing diabetes
- Helping to maintain independence
Psychological benefits include:
- "I feel less anxious and stressed"
- "My confidence and self-esteem are better"
- "Being more active helped me to give up smoking"
- "The activity sessions gave me time for myself"
- "My wife says I look a lot happier"
- "I took more responsibility for my own health"
Social benefits include:
- "It was a good opportunity to meet other people who had the same worries as I did"
- "The sessions made me get out of the house and gave me a new interest"
- "I made new friends and enjoyed the conversations we had"
- "I feel much fitter and can play with my grandchildren for longer now"
Success Stories
Brian Smith
Brian Smith, 86 has benefitted from NERS sessions at Colwyn Leisure Centre and tells us about it in his words:
“I had a fall over 2 years ago and fractured my shoulder. I’ve also had a problem with my knees. The physiotherapy team referred me to NERS, and I started with a Falls Prevention class over 2 years a go.
Attending the NERS session has improved my day-to-day living. I’m much more flexible and mobile and can now pick things up from the floor. I think if I hadn’t started exercising, I would have ended up in a wheelchair.
If you have been referred NERS and are a little apprehensive, please don't hesitate going. All the instructors and reception staff have made me feel so welcome, and have encouraged me. Your general well-being will improve, just go for it, it's a life changer!
I love the sessions so much, I now do six a week. It’s the best thing I've ever done. It's given me a new lease of life at the age of 86. I've made new friends, I'm fitter than ever, and if I can do it then anyone can!”
Peter Nolan
“After experiencing a stroke, my life took an unexpected turn. The simple act of walking became a daunting challenge, and I found myself relying on a stick for support. It was a difficult time, filled with uncertainty and frustration. I tried various treatments in hopes of regaining my mobility—acupuncture, private physiotherapy sessions, and even injections—but none of these approaches came close to the transformative impact of the Exercise Referral Scheme.
From the moment I enrolled in the program, I felt a renewed sense of hope. The scheme is designed to provide tailored exercise plans that cater to individual needs, and it has proven to be absolutely fantastic for my recovery. With the guidance of knowledgeable instructors and a supportive community, I began to engage in physical activities that I never thought I would be able to do again.
As I progressed through the program, I was amazed at how quickly my strength and confidence grew. What started as tentative steps with my stick evolved into the exhilarating experience of jogging short distances. The sense of accomplishment I felt with each small victory was indescribable. I was not just regaining my physical abilities; I was rediscovering a part of myself that I thought I had lost forever.
The Exercise Referral Scheme has not only improved my physical health but has also had a profound impact on my overall well-being. The combination of movement, social interaction, and expert support has fostered a sense of community that has been invaluable during my recovery journey. I have learned the importance of staying active and how it contributes to both mental and emotional health.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Exercise Referral Scheme to anyone who has faced similar challenges. It has been a game-changer for me, and I believe it can be for others as well. If you are looking for a path to recovery that prioritises well-being and movement, this program is an excellent choice. Embrace the journey, and you may find that the possibilities for your recovery are greater than you ever imagined.”
Contact Information:
Roxana Coleson, Exercise Referral Supervisor
Phone: 01492 576134
Email: NERS@conwy.gov.uk