Results - Let's Talk Active

Let's Talk Active results

Your feedback on Active North Yorkshire – what we learned 

The Let’s Talk Active survey asked residents about whether they are physically active, what is important to them about being active, and any barriers they face. The feedback from the survey will help to develop our council leisure facilities and our community-based sport and leisure services in the future.

You can read the full report on the North Yorkshire Council website.

We received 3,281 responses to the Let’s Talk Active survey and held 228 engagement events from September to November 2024. 

What you told us about being active

74% of people say they do 30 minutes or more of physical activity at least 3 or 4 days a week. 

While many people are happy with their activity levels, 1 in 4 people are unhappy or very unhappy. 

The most popular outdoor activities are walking, cycling, running, and swimming. 

Fitness classes, swim sessions and gym sessions are the most popular indoor activities.

What’s stopping people from being more active

The top barriers affecting activity levels are: 

• Time (42%)  
• Price (33%)  
• Health conditions (30%) 
• Travel (28%) 
• Suitability (27%) 

Younger people are most affected by time and price, while older people and those with health conditions face other challenges.

How well leisure centres meet your needs 

39% of people say their leisure centre meets their needs well or very well. 

However, 1 in 3 people say their leisure centre does not meet their needs very well or at all.

What works well: 

✓ Welcoming and supportive staff 

✓ Variety of classes and activities 

✓ Good facilities and equipment 

✓ Social opportunities 

✓ Convenient locations and flexible timings 

What needs improvement: 

✖ Limited class availability and timetables 

✖ Cost concerns 

✖ Facility issues 

✖ Accessibility challenges 

✖ Booking and membership problems 

Healthy weight, health conditions and beginners’ sessions and informal activities are most likely to encourage people to be more active in using leisure services.

People want to see lower costs and more activities to increase participation and more health and wellbeing services and community sessions.

Your top priorities for improvement

Community sports facilities (73%), health and wellbeing programmes (61%), and disability-inclusive facilities (49%) are ranked as top priorities.

What next? 

Health and wellbeing 
The survey highlights the importance of health and wellbeing for residents, especially those with disabilities or long-term health conditions who are least satisfied with their activity levels.

Accessibility and barriers 
Accessibility and distance are major barriers to physical activity. We aim to provide opportunities in various locations, including tailored sessions for those with specific needs.

Future plans and partnerships
We will collaborate with partners to create a new Sport and Active Wellbeing service plan, focusing on health, outreach, and digital opportunities based on feedback. We will work with key partners to develop a new framework called ‘Moving North Yorkshire’, designed to ensure people are stronger for longer in mind and body through movement, play and sport.

Workforce development
The survey emphasises the need for welcoming, supportive staff. We will develop a workforce plan to ensure staff are well-trained and motivated to support active lifestyles.

Community engagement 
We will engage residents to develop Community Health Champions who will help shape local delivery and increase participation.

Facility conditions and investment 
Feedback on facility conditions will guide our leisure investment strategy to ensure facilities meet community needs.

Thank you for sharing your experiences with us!