Northern Trust launches new ‘Prescribe A Mile’ initiative to boost health and wellbeing

Pictured at the recent launch of the Prescribe A Mile initiative in Coleraine, including service users, James Cannie, Consultant Respiratory Physician at Causeway Hospital and Darren French, Interim Head of Service Cardiac at Northern Ireland Chest Heart & Stroke.

A new health and wellbeing initiative designed to help people become more active is now under way in Coleraine, encouraging residents and patients alike to take small, manageable steps towards a healthier lifestyle.

Prescribe A Mile, based in Coleraine town centre, is a Northern Health and Social Care Trust initiative which promotes gentle physical activity through a series of clearly marked walking trails, ranging from 500 metres to almost one mile.

With the simple message that “you don’t have to go fast or far – just start walking and let each step bring you closer to better health,” the initiative aims to make movement feel achievable for those living with long-term health conditions, as well as anyone keen to boost their overall wellbeing.

The project is supported by Northern Ireland Chest Heart & Stroke and has been made possible through the backing of Brilliant Trails, an award-winning trail design agency based in Antrim.

Participants can follow three designated routes, all beginning at Coleraine Town Hall, with distances designed to suit varying levels of ability. A specially developed booklet accompanies the walks, featuring a quiz for each trail based on local points of interest.

On completion, participants can enjoy discounts at selected independent cafés in the town, helping to support local businesses while encouraging social connection.

Prevention rather than cure

Consultant Respiratory Physician at Causeway Hospital, James Cannie, said the idea behind Prescribe A Mile was rooted in the belief that everyday movement can play a vital role in managing health conditions.

“I believe that simple things like a daily walk are great ways for our patients to be involved in managing their condition, and that modern medicine needs to spend a bit more time thinking about prevention rather than cure.

“Going for a walk every day is perfect at combining both of these aspects. It can boost your mood, improve your exercise capacity and reduce the chance of being re-admitted again in the future. Living with a respiratory or cardiovascular condition can be difficult, but it shouldn’t mean that our patients are confined to their homes.”

He explained that the concept evolved following a chance meeting with Allan Hamilton from Brilliant Trails.

“The idea about creating manageable walking trails within the town followed on from a chance encounter with Allan Hamilton from Brilliant Trails, and we’re really pleased with what we have come up with together.

“Allan’s mother had lung disease, and she used an oxygen supply, so he had a personal understanding of the challenges involved. His input has been invaluable, and it’s been really encouraging for us to see our idea come to fruition, one step at a time.”

Patient’s voice

Among those who have already experienced the benefits of the initiative is Brian from Ballycastle, who lives with interstitial lung disease (ILD), a condition that causes scarring of the lungs and makes breathing more difficult.

Brian said:

“I have really enjoyed getting involved with Prescribe a Mile, and trying out the walks from the Town Hall. I take my oxygen tank with me and I already feel stronger and more confident about what I can achieve.

“I enjoy getting outdoors, meeting people and having a chat along the way. If I can do it, anyone can so please get out and give it a go!”

His experience highlights the inclusive nature of the scheme, which has been carefully designed to support people with respiratory and cardiovascular conditions while also welcoming the wider community.

Walking options for all abilities

The Prescribe A Mile programme offers three clearly defined routes:

• The 500m ‘Breathe Easy Trail’, designed to gently introduce participants to regular walking

• The 1,000m ‘Steady Steps Trail’, focusing on building a slow and consistent pace

• The 1,500m ‘Pause and Stroll’ trail, encouraging walkers to move at their own speed and take breaks when needed

James added:

“By creating short and easy to follow trails, we hope to make the prospect of going for a walk more achievable for those who may find it daunting. Movement can be a powerful medicine and whether you’re recovering from a hospital admission, living with a chronic illness or just want to get a bit fitter, these trails will help to get you started by giving you the motivation and support that you need.”

As part of the initiative, several Coleraine cafés — Lost & Found, Fidela, Considered Co and Bob & Berts — have agreed to offer a 10 per cent discount on hot drinks to participants who complete the trails.

“We’re very grateful to Allan and all at the team at Brilliant Trails, as well as Lost & Found, Fidela, Considered Co and Bob & Berts in Coleraine, who very kindly agreed to offer a 10% discount on their hot drinks as part of the scheme. By working in partnership like this, we can make a real difference to the health and wellbeing of those in our local communities,” James said.

Charity support

Northern Ireland Chest Heart & Stroke has welcomed the initiative, highlighting its alignment with wider support services available across the region.

Darren French, Interim Head of Service Cardiac at Northern Ireland Chest Heart & Stroke, said:

“We are delighted to support this initiative and have enjoyed working with Dr Cannie on this project.

“If you are living with a respiratory condition, Northern Ireland Chest Heart & Stroke is here to help you with whatever challenges you may be facing. Whether it is providing information and advice on your condition to relieve worry and confusion or helping you to connect with others in similar situations, we are here to help you get back on your feet.

“The help our Care Services Team provides is extensive and includes a Family Support service, our Breathing Better education programme, wellness sessions, our Inspire Choir, our Taking Control Self Management Programme, and support for carers.

“Our team works throughout Northern Ireland with people of all ages affected by respiratory conditions. We are dedicated to supporting people in adjusting to life with a respiratory condition, helping them to enjoy life to the full, re-engage with hobbies, and improve their confidence, independence, and overall wellbeing.”