Bridging the Gap: How Intermediaries Connect Irish Adults to Community-Based Physical Activity

The Referral Process: Opening Doors to Activity

Connecting individuals with community-based physical activity is a crucial step in promoting healthier lifestyles. In Ireland, intermediaries acting as "link persons" play a vital role in this process. Referrals come from a wide range of sources, from healthcare professionals to family members, and even self-referrals. Interestingly, specific referrals for physical activity improvement are surprisingly low, suggesting a gap in awareness among referring agents.

Who Gets Referred? A Diverse Group Seeking Support

The individuals referred to these intermediaries represent a diverse cross-section of the community. Typically middle-aged to older adults, often with co-existing physical and mental health conditions, these individuals face various barriers to physical activity. These obstacles can include mobility issues, social isolation, and even a perceived lack of suitable activities. However, the intermediaries' person-centered approach helps address these barriers head-on.

Making the Connection: Finding the Right Fit for Each Individual

Following an initial consultation, where needs and preferences are discussed, intermediaries work to find the perfect physical activity match. Local Sports Partnerships (LSPs) and Social Prescribing Link Workers (SPs) take the lead in facilitating these connections, considering individual abilities, interests, and even the expertise of the activity instructors. While Health Promotion and Improvement Officers (HPOs) focus primarily on smoking cessation, LSPs and SPs offer varying levels of ongoing support, from accompanying individuals to their first session to providing long-term encouragement.

Beyond the Initial Connection: Supporting Long-Term Engagement

The goal isn't just to make a connection but to foster lasting engagement. While formal evaluation is not always possible due to limited resources, intermediaries observe continued participation as a positive indicator of success. Interestingly, many individuals become "repeat attenders," highlighting the value of these community-based programs.

Working Within the Local Context: Knowledge is Power

A key asset for intermediaries is their deep understanding of local resources. This knowledge, often painstakingly cultivated through personal efforts, is invaluable in matching individuals with appropriate activities. From walking groups to chair-based exercise and everything in between, intermediaries draw on their extensive network of community partners to create a comprehensive support system.

Partnerships and Collaboration: Strengthening the Support Network

Intermediaries recognize the power of collaboration. By forging strong partnerships with local organizations, they ensure access to a wider range of resources, including equipment, funding, and venues. This collaborative approach is particularly crucial in rural areas, where geographic isolation can present significant challenges.

The Untapped Potential of Intermediaries: A Call for Greater Recognition

Given the high rates of physical inactivity in Ireland, this study highlights the significant, yet often underutilized, potential of intermediaries. By understanding their processes and the challenges they face, we can strengthen referral pathways and support these vital community connectors in their mission to promote healthier, more active lives.

"Intermediaries may be an under-utilized resource to promote physical activity. Understanding the processes used in their interventions can inform future research, which is needed to investigate the effectiveness of intermediaries in improving physical activity levels and to inform future referral pathways." - O’Grady, Barrett, & Connolly (2025)