Noah’s Ark: Embedding Physical Activity into Mental Health Support

Noah's Ark is a grant-funded charity whose work includes counselling sessions for 5-15-year-olds. As a frontline service with direct contact with young people and schools, they were identified as an 'Active Partner' to help young people in crisis to find improved mental wellbeing through being physically active.

A workshop with 12 practitioners helped identify opportunities for “active conversations” during counselling. Together, they compiled 16 practical suggestions for introducing movement into sessions. Practitioners raised legitimate concerns about mood and readiness, and agreed that physical activity should be introduced only when led by the young person. Overall, there was a shared commitment to embedding active conversations where appropriate.

Walking therapy has emerged as a particularly successful approach. Young people have responded positively to walking sessions, often finding it easier to talk while moving than sitting across a table. Over the summer, Noah’s Ark ran Wellbeing Walks and now hosts regular Walking Wednesday sessions with groups of neurodivergent students at Trinity Sixth Form and Calderdale College.

These sessions have consistent attendance, with participation recorded by the lead counsellor.

Counsellors also advocate for physical activity as a tool for improving mental health. They regularly discuss young people’s engagement with movement both in and out of school or college, and particularly in making the most of our local parks and green spaces.

A survey conducted in May 2025 showed:

• 89% of counsellors encourage service-users to be more active in daily life

• 63% discuss the benefits of physical activity

• 38% run walking therapy sessions

• 89% say conversations about being active are well-received by young people

“The young people value the Wednesday Walks. It gives them time to regulate and share time with others who face similar challenges. Getting them outside and into fresh air really helps them to grow in confidence and manage their anxiety.” - Rebecca Brearley, Integrated Wellbeing Service Research Co-ordinator