Stakeholder views on the installation and use of mile long tracks in community parks aimed at increasing physical activity in low-income minority areas: A qualitative evaluation in Birmingham UK.

OBJECTIVES

Physical activity (PA) is essential for preventing and managing chronic diseases and improving mental health. Despite national guidelines recommending regular PA, significant disparities exist across demographic groups and regions in the UK, with Birmingham and the West Midlands reporting some of the lowest activity levels. We aimed to explore the development, implementation, and perceived value of Every Step Matters (ESM) tracks-mile-long walking routes installed in eight Birmingham parks situated in neighbourhoods with high deprivation and ethnic diversity.

STUDY

DESIGN

Qualitative evaluation.

METHODS

Data were collected from 35 participants through ten in-depth interviews and four focus groups, including community members, track users, and stakeholders from the Birmingham City Council (BCC) Public Health team and a physical activity charity based in the West Midlands who work with communities from a range of socio-economic backgrounds and ethnicities in urban areas. Rapid qualitative analysis was undertaken.

RESULTS

Seven themes were identified: (1) use of the tracks, (2) promoting use, (3) increasing appeal, (4) perceived benefits, (5) barriers, (6) sustainability, and (7) interactions between the Public Health team and the PA charity partner. While the tracks were viewed as inclusive, low-cost, and beneficial for health and community cohesion, barriers such as safety concerns, low motivation, and poor maintenance were identified. Recommendations include improving awareness, addressing safety, promoting group activities, and ensuring long-term sustainability.

CONCLUSIONS

The ESM tracks show promise as a community-based intervention to promote PA in disadvantaged areas. However, sustained impact requires strategic planning, community ownership, and targeted support. Further research is needed to explore adherence, guided versus non-guided use, and the role of social determinants in PA engagement.