People across Moray are being invited to help shape a new long term vision aimed at making physical activity and sport a normal part of everyday life for communities across the region.
The draft strategy, known as Active Moray, has been developed to support healthier lives, stronger communities, and reduced inequality by encouraging more people to take part in physical activity and sport.
A public consultation has now launched through Moray Engage, giving residents, community groups, and organisations the chance to influence the final strategy before it is adopted.
The consultation will remain open until Monday 23 February.
Active Moray sets out a shared ambition for Moray to become a place where everyone feels supported and empowered to be more active, regardless of age, background, or ability.
The strategy has been co developed with national and local partners spanning sport, health, education, the voluntary sector, and local communities, with further feedback now being sought to refine and strengthen the approach.
A central focus of the plan is tackling health inequalities and promoting equality, diversity, and inclusion, recognising that where people live and their personal circumstances can have a significant impact on how active they are.
The strategy aims to remove barriers to participation and make physical activity more accessible to those who are currently least likely to take part.
Recent figures highlight the scale of the challenge, with the Scottish Health Survey finding that around one in six people in Moray are sedentary, while conditions linked to inactivity, including Type 2 diabetes, are becoming increasingly common.
Chair of Moray Council’s Community Planning Board, Kathleen Robertson, said the consultation is a vital part of shaping the final strategy.
“This consultation is an opportunity for people to help inform this innovative new approach to physical activity.
“We’re keen to hear from a range of voices and, in particular, from people who are not currently active to help understand the various barriers that exist to make sure this strategy takes steps to remove them.”
The strategy brings together a wide partnership including NHS Grampian, UHI Moray, TSI Moray, Moray Leisure Centre, Public Health Scotland, sportscotland, and Scottish Disability Sport.
Consultant in Public Health at NHS Grampian, Elizabeth Robinson, said increasing physical activity is one of the most effective ways to improve wellbeing.
“Physical activity remains the best medicine we have, it strengthens our bodies, supports our wellbeing and builds thriving communities.
“While many people across Moray are already active, too many still take very little physical activity.
“The Active Moray Strategy is our commitment to changing that, making it easier for everyone, regardless of age or background, to move more and live well.”
Residents are encouraged to take part in the consultation and help shape how Moray supports physical activity and wellbeing in the years ahead.
