Physical Activity Peer Activator project
Physical Activity Peer Activator (PAPA) project - London Borough of Camden.
The project aimed to develop a team of volunteers to encourage and support the use of outdoor gyms (OG) and outdoor spaces in Camden.
PAPA recruited 38 volunteers and offered them training about using outdoor gyms, exercising and staying healthy. This training was provided by YMCAfit, a registered charity that trains fitness professionals.
Once trained, the volunteers ran outdoor gym sessions, supporting 359 participants - all residents of Camden.
The PAPA project brought together partners from across the private, public and third sectors and was able to engage with people who would not normally participate in learning.
It opened up local public and private spaces and facilities that would not normally be available for informal learning. Participants reported better physical well-being.
- Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) checks can take some time and this can cause delays and impact on timescales;
- local volunteers were more committed than volunteers from outside of the area; and
- Health and Safety, risk assessments and insurance are important for projects like this.
Sport and Physical Activity Section
7th Floor
Camden Town Hall Extension
Argyle Street
London
WC1H 8EQ
