Exploring the perceptions and acceptability of a 'Golf for Health' social prescribing scheme amongst key stakeholders and healthcare professionals

Aim Physical inactivity is a major cause of premature death within the UK. Efforts must be made to increase activity rates, and pathways to opportunities must be utilised and optimised. Social prescribing (connecting inactive individuals with local health-enhancing opportunities) is increasingly encouraged by policymakers and can prove an important mechanism. A pilot social prescribing scheme, ‘Golf for Health’ was developed and tested in Fife, Scotland to assess the connection pathway between community health settings and golf clubs, and crucially, understanding this from stakeholder perspective. Subject and Methods: Following the pilot, surveys were conducted with 44 participants (Engagers, n = 23; Non-Engagers, n = 5), Healthcare Professionals (HCPs, n = 6), Community Link Workers (CLWs, n = 4), and Golf Club Staff (GC, n = 6). Questions were tailored for each group, based on their involvement and included motivations for engagement, effort required, perceptions and challenges. Results Participants expressed their appreciation for the opportunity and scheme. Stakeholders recognised the potential role of local physical activity programmes in improving community health and were keen to support the ‘Golf for Health’ scheme. There were concerns regarding the responsibilities of each stakeholder role, with suggestions made for future development, improvement and progression. The biggest barrier to engagement for all parties was perceived lack of time. Conclusion Participants and stakeholders of the programme were largely supportive, and stakeholders understood the vital role they played for the effective implementation of the programme. Future consideration must be given to the time expectations, and solutions to barriers that all stakeholders may experience.