New prescription cards are being launched in Guernsey to help encourage people to be more active.

The physical activity prescription cards have been distributed by The Health Improvement Commission with healthcare professionals, including GP Dr Laura Bell, using them to offer patients some ideas for taking up some gentle exercise.

“Being active is the biggest benefit a person can make to their health and well-being, it doesn’t have to be much, starting with just 10 minutes a day can make a huge difference,” she said.

“We hope the new Physical Activity Prescriptions will encourage health professionals to have more focussed conversations and empower individuals to find ways to increase their daily movement that work for them.” 

There are two versions of the new prescription cards – with one including space for healthcare professionals to write down personalised activity goals—such as joining a local group, going for regular walks, or using an online resource.

The second version features simple, conversation-starting prompts like “Being active could help with…” and “Something you could try is…”.

The cards also include the UK Chief Medical Officers’ physical activity guidelines, some of the benefits of being active, and a QR code linking to a wide range of free online activity resources.

Sam Green, the Adult Physical Activity Officer at The Health Improvement Commission, said it’s all about normalising gentle exercise as a means to overall wellbeing.

“These cards are part of a wider initiative to embed physical activity into everyday healthcare. We know physical activity can play a key role in both the prevention and management of a wide range of health conditions—from heart disease to depression.

“Feedback from patients has shown that having something tangible to take away from a consultation can be helpful. This insight helped shape the development of the cards, ensuring they offer practical support.

“We hope these cards will help normalise conversations about being active as part of healthcare so that it is seen as an additional way to help manage health.”