Insights on factors impeding or facilitating local efforts in physical activity promotion

Abstract In various countries, physical activity on prescription or referral (PAP/R) has been used to promote physical activity and reduce sedentary behaviours in order to create change in lifestyles in citizens. In Belgium, there is no national policy on PAP/R, however several initiatives and programmes exist. Many other initiatives promote physical activity in the population using various mediums and embed their work within communities. Local initiatives are often resourceful and resilient, drawing on their knowledge of their environment, experience in the field and networks to make an impact. Drawing from the experience of the promotion of physical activity in local communities in Belgium, this presentation will offer insight into the benefits and potential problems that may arise from government supported local actions. There are lessons to be learnt in terms of: • Sustainability, especially in terms for funding and long-term planning to improve health promotion actions and health of citizens; • Mismatch between governance competencies, local reality and national frameworks, which hinders the impact of health promotion efforts; • The role of local initiatives and the inclusion the local population with an equity lense. The case of Belgium can be used to emphasize the strength of local initiatives as well as their pitfalls. In order to promote health through physical activity, it is important to build on cooperation and integration of various levels of governance. Supporting local communities can close the gap between recommendations, change in behaviours and improvement in health status. It is important to avoid working in silos, re-connection and co-construction could lead to a sustainable system whilst taking into account needs and perspectives at local and national or macro levels.