Small Changes, Big Impact: How Pennine GP Alliance is Moving More

At Pennine GP Alliance, the General Practice Physical Activity Champion identified opportunities within the working day to help staff incorporate more movement. The goal? To get people moving more and create a cultural shift - normalising movement together.

Simple Ideas That Make a Difference

Two key initiatives were introduced:

• Stretch While You Brew

  A poster was placed above the kettle in the kitchen, showing three simple stretches that counteract the effects of sitting at a desk. The idea is simple: while waiting for the kettle to boil, take a moment to move.

• Monday Lunchtime Walks

  A regular walk from the office building every Monday lunchtime encourages staff to step away from their desks and enjoy the benefits of walking.

  
  

The Impact So Far

The poster has prompted staff to include movement during their time in the kitchen, and the Monday walk has not only encouraged participation but also served as a reminder of the benefits of walking in general. While the impact is currently measured anecdotally, the response has been positive.

Voices from the Team:

“I've enjoyed the opportunity to test out how making a small environmental change like a poster can increase movement during the day. This lived experience will support me in my promotion of physical activity within general practice.” - Hannah Davies, General Practice Physical Activity Champion

“As a result of the posters in the kitchen, I routinely keep moving (stretching, walking round the kitchen) while the kettle boils. I can't often make the Monday walk, but the fact that it takes place every Monday keeps activity in mind and reminds me to do some sort of movement. Hannah's presence in the office serves as a reminder (guilt trip??!) to be more active. The Friday updates have made me smile and, while I haven't done the video activities, they have made me think about what I can do over the weekend to be active.” - Eilidh Gunson, PGPA Cancer Care Coordinator

If you would like to explore how you can lead the way in supporting movement within the workplace, visit our dedicated Active Workplaces webpage, and check out all the resources available for you in our Resource Hub.