GPs in Lewisham prescribe parkrun for patients

www.lewishamccg.nhs.uk We are encouraging Lewisham residents and health and care staff to become part of the parkrun family. Parkruns are free (run by volunteers), weekly, 5km timed runs that are open to all and conducted in a safe and supportive environment. With the option to run, walk or jog around designated open spaces (with or without a dog or baby buggy), this popular Saturday morning pursuit has gained many supporters in and outside the medical profession. In 2018, the Royal College of General Practitioners (RCGP) and the organisers of parkrun launched a ground-breaking initiative to enable the ‘prescribing’ of outdoor physical activities with the aim to reduce the need for lifelong medication and provide an alternative. Known as parkrun practice, the initiative is an excellent example of social prescribing to improve the health and wellbeing of staff, patients and carers. Patients are supported to participate by the event organisers and staff are encouraged to take part. Search for parkrun or speak to staff in your GP practice for more information.