Get Moving ABC Framework sets out vision for a more active and healthier future for all

New 10-year strategic framework set to play a key role in creating opportunities for everyone in the borough to get moving and stay moving as part of a long-term commitment to adopting a healthier lifestyle.

The overarching aim of the Get Moving ABC Framework 2020-2030 is to enable Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon to become the most physically active borough in Northern Ireland over the next decade.

The Get Moving ABC Framework Partnership – which comprises 13 statutory bodies and organisations from a range of sectors – collaborated on creating this ambitious strategic document in a bid to help address the health risks associated with leading a sedentary lifestyle.

Although regular exercise is widely recognised as being one of the best ways to improve overall health and wellbeing, lack of physical activity continues to a global problem that poses a major risk to public health.

The UK Chief Medical Officers’ Physical Activity Guidelines (2019) state that ‘if physical activity were a drug, we would refer to it as a miracle cure due to the great many illnesses it can prevent and help treat’.

Acknowledging the work that has gone into bringing this strategy to fruition, Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough, Councillor Kevin Savage said:

“Well done to all the members of Get Moving ABC Framework Partnership for contributing to this bold strategy, which will be transformational in inspiring people to achieve and sustain healthier lifestyles through increased activity. Being active every day provides a foundation for a healthier and happier life. As a council, we are committed to working with our partners to provide further opportunities for all our citizens to get moving and stay moving throughout their lives.”

The focus will be on increasing sport and physical activity within homes, communities, workplaces and schools, with a view to motivating and encouraging as many people as possible to meet and exceed the recommended levels of physical activity in line with government guidance as well as develop more positive attitudes towards being active.

To help realise its vision, the partnership has developed a two-year action plan to help guide its activities and review its progress as it works towards achieving a number of strategic priorities.

Gerard Rocks, Chair of the Healthy Communities Thematic Action Planning Team, added:

“Get Moving ABC is borough-wide collective effort to motivate and support as many people as possible to get moving. We know that regular exercise improves our physical and mental health and promotes our overall wellbeing. However, even though we know about the benefits, most of us don’t move enough. By working together across all sectors, we can make the best use of resources to create opportunities for people to become more active and start their lifelong journey to better health and wellness.”

Watch a video marking the launch of the Get Moving ABC Framework 2020-2030 at https://bit.ly/3r8PSqx

The Get Moving ABC Framework 2020-2030 can be viewed or downloaded at getactiveabc.com/get-moving

For further information on the Get Moving ABC Framework, contact Gillian Dewart, Sports Development Manager on 028 3831 1693 or email