The Junior Exercise Referral Scheme is designed for young people aged 14-17 living with an illness or long-term health condition who would benefit from becoming more active.
The programme provides safe, personalised exercise guidance from Advanced Specialist Instructors, with tailored support to help each young person move more confidently and improve their wellbeing.
Self referrals must be made by phone or email. Health professionals refer via the ReferAll system.
What Is the Junior Exercise Referral Scheme?
This 12 week programme helps young people increase their physical activity levels safely and enjoyably. Following referral, every young person receives a personalised exercise plan based on their condition, ability and goals, created by our specialist instructors.
Junior Exercise Referral is a funded scheme through the Everybody foundation, places are limited.
A buddy may attend sessions alongside the young person throughout the 12 weeks (must be the same person each time).
Who Is the Programme For?
If you’re unsure whether a young person is eligible, our triage team will confirm during referral.
Why Being Active Matters for Young People
Being active is also enjoyable, social and empowering particularly for young people managing a long term condition.
What to Expect When You Join
The journey through the scheme follows four stages:
If eligible, the triage team will phone the family to discuss the young person’s medical history, medication and physical ability.
Young people aged 14–16 must attend appointments with a parent or carer.
Proof of condition is required.
A 30 minute face-to-face appointment with an Advanced Specialist Instructor.
It includes:
- Health assessment
- Goal setting
- Introduction to a personalised activity plan
The young person begins using the gym, pool, group exercise sessions and other facilities appropriate to their age and condition.
Progress reviews take place at key points.
After completing the 12 week programme, families can access:
- Membership options
- Pay-as-you-go activity
This helps maintain long term activity and health improvements.
Where the Programme Runs
These sites offer a mix of gym, swim and activity options for young people.
How to Make a Referral
Self referrals must be made by phone or email. Health professionals refer directly through the ReferAll management system.
Our triage team will then confirm eligibility, arrange the next steps and contact the family to begin the process.