The National Exercise Referral Scheme (NERS) is a chronic condition prevention and management programme which aims to improve the health and wellbeing of sedentary and inactive adults who are at risk of developing or who have an existing chronic condition. It provides a 16-week programme of physical activity to individuals referred by NHS health professionals, using behaviour change techniques to embed positive physical activity habits.
Once referred, patients that meet the criteria are invited to their local leisure centre for an initial assessment with a qualified exercise referral professional. They will be offered a tailored, supervised exercise programme for 16 weeks and their progress will be reviewed at key points.