KKP's work with Trafford MBC, Trafford Leisure Trust and the local PCT has resulted in one of the most effective physical activity interventions in the Northwest.

A key driver for the development of a revised programme was the low take-up of the then leisure pass in Trafford. This was the result of the onus being on the applicant to enquire about and apply it. Partners were also keen to address health inequalities in the area through sport and physical activity.

KKP assisted the Council and the Trust to develop a more proactive approach to the distribution of leisure passes in Trafford. Under the new system, an individual who meets the criteria (in terms of ill health) is offered a free induction and sessions of activity. Following this, those eligible for a leisure pass are provided with a pass at the relevant rate, others are encouraged to join an appropriate membership package.

The network of referral agents in Trafford has been expanded significantly from the traditional GP route. This has already increased levels of awareness and improved the chances of those eligible for the scheme joining. The use of leisure pass allows the success of the scheme to be assessed overall and tracked back to individual referral agents.

In turn, this allows the core partners to identify good practice and work closely with referral agents that are less successful.

Core to its momentum is the appointment of a leisure pass co-ordinator, whose role is to ensure that residents are able to progress through the scheme to ongoing participation.

It has enjoyed significant success. It has attracted a range of users into facilities in Trafford, many of whom would never have previously used, or even considered using such facilities. It has also had a significant impact on the health of those involved, with ongoing physical activity leading to noticeable improvements in the management of conditions such as obesity.