The Guernsey and Alderney Wellbeing Survey 2023 revealed that a lack of leisure time is the most common barrier to being more active. The survey also indicated that satisfaction with leisure time is lower among those with children compared to those without, and those aged 25-44 are the least likely to report high satisfaction with the amount of leisure time they have.This highlights the challenge many parents face in finding time to be active. Active Spectators aims to create and highlight convenient opportunities for parents to be active while their children participate in sports clubs, maximising their available time.
“We know it can be difficult for busy parents to find time to be active, especially when juggling their children's activities. Dropping off children at some of these activities might provide a brief window of time for parents to be active if convenient opportunities are available.Our goal is to create and promote these opportunities, making it easier for parents to be active. Even a few minutes of regular activity can improve your health.”- Sam Green, Adult Physical Activity Officer.
The project was launched by positioning two bikes at Beau Sejour for parents and carers to use whilst their children are in swimming lessons. The bikes have been popular and were used over 100 times in the first four weeks.
After the bikes were launched, the Commission invited parents to fill out a survey to share their suggestions for activities and preferred sporting venues. This feedback helped shape the first expansion of Active Spectators, with a bootcamp exercise class being introduced at Footes Lane on Sunday mornings for parents of children attending hockey and rugby sessions.
The aim is to expand further and offer other activities at other venues across the island so please get in touch with us if you would like to share your ideas or how you stay active whilst your children are at clubs! Please email sam.green@healthimprovement.gg