Projects

Dr Maps

Client: Camden NHS

Summary:

We were asked to find a way to get sedentary people walking. We piloted a project using well drawn maps to shown safe, interesting routes centred on GP surgeries.

The problem:

There are a lot of people out there who don't take enough exercise. Encouraging them to change their life style is not easy but it is important, and a priority for many primary care trusts.

Our input:

Camden NHS approached WEalk England who contracted in The Access Company to trial a project to encourage walking through mapping.

We :

Talked to local people to find out where they walk, where they feel safe, what landmarks are important to them and what they want us to show ona map.
Identified routes centred on local GP surgeries to provide a range of experiences; stress buster, health walks and routes to and from places.
Audited the routes to identify any barriers, and ensure they met our need of being safe, interesting, and accessible.
We had individual maps drawn up to clearly show the routes with no need for directions

The result:

The pilot project produced 4 walking route maps covering 4 GP surgeries and 1 hospital. In addition we produced a 'how to get here on foot' map for the Royal Free Hospital.

The maps are published in tear-off pad form and are 'prescribed' by GPs and health professionals, and are available in waiting rooms and community centres. They are also used by local businesses to encourage lunchtime walking.

Evaluation is on-going but early results are very positive and CAmden NHS is considering rolling the project out across the whoeel area.