Trials in 11 areas across England will see walking and cycling prescribed by GPs as part of a trial to improve mental and physical health and reduce disparities across the country.

£12.7 million of funding will go to 11 local authority areas to be spent on pilot projects including adult cycle training, free bike loans and walking groups.

The pilots will be delivered alongside improved infrastructure to ensure people feel safe to cycle and walk.

The pilots are part of a commitment in the government's Gear Change plan, which is evaluating the impact of cycling and walking on people's health. It is hoped increased exercise will reduce the burden on the NHS and reduce heart disease and diabetes.

This is the first time transport, active travel and health officials will work together towards a whole systems approach to health improvement and tackle health disparities. Those involved include NHS England, the Office for Health Improvement and Disparities, Sport England, the National Academy for Social Prescribing, Defra and the Department for Health and Social Care.

Walking and Cycling Minister, Trudy Harrison, said: "Walking and cycling has so many benefits – from improving air quality in our communities to reducing congestion on our busiest streets.

"It also has an enormous positive impact on physical and mental health, which is why we have funded these projects which will get people across the country moving and ease the burden on our NHS."

National Active Travel Commissioner, Chris Boardman, said: "As a nation we need healthier, cheaper and more pleasant ways to get around for everyday trips. Active Travel England’s mission is to ensure millions of people nationwide can do just that – so it’s easier to leave the car at home and to enjoy the benefits that come with it."

Rachel White, Head of Public Affairs at walking and cycling charity Sustrans said: "Car-dependency is a primary cause of inactivity in the UK, which can have hugely negative consequences for our health, our economy, and our NHS. Our research found that 89% of users told us that improving their wellbeing is a factor in deciding to use the National Cycle Network and in 2019 it boosted the UK economy by an estimated £2.1 billion in health, congestion and environmental benefits.
 
“Prioritising active travel will benefit our nation’s health, so we welcome the introduction of this social prescribing pilot. If social prescribing is to be effective, then UK walking, wheeling and cycling infrastructure must see continued investment and development, so the public feel safe and confident in fulfilling their GP’s advice to improve their health.
 
“Equally, as more people struggle with the cost-of-living crisis and the costs of running a car soar, people must be given a genuine choice to be able to leave the car at home and use cheaper, healthier alternatives for everyday journeys.”