Pan-Wales institute works to promote the health and wellbeing of the nation: A year in review

The unique challenges facing health and wellbeing as we emerge from the pandemic into a new era have been highlighted in a new annual report launched today (28 April).

The Welsh Institute of Physical Activity, Health and Sport (WIPAHS) is a pan-Wales network which sees all eight Welsh universities working with Sport Wales and Welsh Government. It brings together academia, those facilitating physical activity and sport, policy makers and the public to help create a healthier society.

One example of the institute’s work was a nationwide survey assessing the impact of school closures and easing of restrictions on children’s physical activity levels and mental wellbeing. It revealed that children were badly affected by the lockdowns and associated restrictions; some children spent 14 hours a day sitting!

Paul Rainer, Deputy Head of the School of Health, Sport and Professional Practice, University of South Wales, said: “We are delighted to be involved in this unique opportunity to bring together academic representatives from across Wales, working together to further the role of physical activity, health and sport. WIPAHS is informing policy decision making in Wales and developing the future health of the nation.

Owen Hathway, Assistant Director at Sport Wales and the Institute’s Co-Chair, said: “Our ability at Sport Wales, and within the sport sector, to prioritise resource and investment and to make informed policy decisions has been greatly enhanced by the work of WIPAHS.

“It has played a critical role in responding to research needs and understanding the role of physical activity and sport for the wider Welsh public. The Institute continues to be an increasingly important strategic partner and the annual report showcases the quality and breadth of its work, with a pan-Wales focus.”

The annual report highlights research already completed by the Institute, but they are also looking to the future with further projects.

These include an evaluation of the Active Education Beyond the School Day initiative which is tied into the Welsh Government’s £25 million investment in community focused schools to tackle the impact of poverty.

The findings will help provide recommendations on how to create schools that can engage with families and community, especially those disadvantaged by poverty.

This exciting project exemplifies the cross-sector approach WIPAHS utilises to provide key evidence to promote health and wellbeing for everyone in Wales.