MacMillan Get Active, Feel Good Physical activity programme: interim report

This evaluation report examined data regarding the implementation, impact and receipt of the two year Lincolnshire Sport and MacMillan Get Active, Feel Good programme after 12 months. The analysis was based upon the programme theory generated at the start of the programme. The Get Active, Feel Good programme aims to engage individuals who currently live with a diagnosis of cancer and to provide them with support in undertaking more physical activity. The programme is based on a 1:1 behaviour change model which is facilitated by two MacMillan physical activity practitioners who are working across Lincolnshire over a 12-month period of ongoing support. At the 12 month point the headline findings are: 112 participants had accessed the service during the first 6 months compared to the original target set (720 participants over 2years) There was an uneven geographical spread of successful referrals across the county with a concentration within the following areas LN2 (15%), PE21 (13%) and NG34 (11%). This was supported by interview data from the stakeholders. Participants reported that the programme had positively impacted on their well-being, increased their motivation, facilitated their social interaction and positivity. There was a significant increase in the total minutes participants spent active when comparing data from 0 to 6 months. Levels of fatigue were significantly reduced in participants within the first three months of the programme. Stakeholders reported that the participant-led approach to the programme gave participants ownership and control which is perceived as being valuable to those diagnosed with cancer. Stakeholders felt that additional information about the programme needs to be provided to other health care professionals, in order to increase referrals