Be Active For Health

The Be Active for Health program is a district wide series of initiatives for those within our community who are suffering with chronic health conditions or are recovering from surgery. Through these programs, which include the Physical Activity Referral Scheme (PARS), Cardiac Rehabilitation and the Be Active Health Network, we aim to support and empower individuals to make positive lifestyle changes and enhance their physical health.

Physical Activity Referral Scheme (PARS)

PARS is a GP referral programme which help patients lead healthier lifestyles, reducing the likelihood and even delaying the onset of some health conditions. With the support and encouragement of our PARS team who are level 3 qualified in Exercise Referral, our participants are taking the first steps to becoming more active, improving their health and wellbeing.

Each programme runs for 12 weeks. Within this time, participants have unlimited access to a leisure centre pool, health suite, fitness suite and Be Active for Life classes alongside 8 weeks of specialised PARS classes. Weekly outdoor activities are also part of the programme, which are social, engaging and very enjoyable for participant.

The PARS programme, which is available in Newry Leisure Centre, Down Leisure Centre, Kilkeel Leisure Centre and Newcastle Centre costs £21.80 (concessionary rates available).

If you would like to know more about PARS across the district, contact:

Newry Leisure Centre: laura@healthy-kidz.com

Down Leisure Centre: arlene.johnston@nmandd.org

Kilkeel / Newcastle: paula.earley@nmandd.org.

To learn more about the PARS programme click here

Cardiac Rehabilitation 

The Cardiac Rehabilitation Phase IV Programme at Newry Leisure Centre and Ballymote Health and Wellbeing Centre is specifically designed to support individuals recovering from a cardiac event. This 8-week programme focuses on improving heart health through supervised exercise, education on heart disease, lifestyle changes and emotional support. 

Participants will engage in exercises led by trained cardiac rehab instructors to safely rebuild fitness and receive ongoing monitoring through weekly health checks, including heart rate and blood pressure assessments. 

The programme runs in Newry Leisure Centre and Ballymote Health and Wellbeing Centre and is available by referral only on completion of Cardiac Rehab Phase III, with clients referred from Heath Trust’s cardiac teams to the Council’s cardiac team. 

The overall goal is to help individuals strengthen their heart, promote healthy habits, and reduce future heart risks in a safe, supportive environment.

To learn more about Cardiac Rehab email:

Newry Leisure Centre: paula.early@nmandd.org

Ballymote Health and Wellbeing Centre: arlene.johnston@nmandd.org

Be Active Health Network

The Be Active Health Network meets every week on a social capacity however on a monthly basis, there is the opportunity to connect with local health services. Each month, a representative from health services or community services will provide information, advice and guidance on various topics in a relaxed, friendly setting. Enjoy a cup of tea while learning about health and wellbeing services, and meet the Council's health team, social care partners, and local charities to find the support you need—no appointment is required, and admission is free. All are welcome!

The Be Active Health Network is held at the following locations and times:

Newry Leisure Centre:

• Wednesdays, 12pm to 1:30pm

Down Leisure Centre:

• Thursdays, 12pm to 1:30pm

For more information contact:

Email: laura.savage@nmandd.org

Telephone: 07769 285574