Physical activity funding scheme for workplaces

Information about the scheme

Following a successful funding scheme in 2025-2026, we are pleased to be able to  run the scheme again in 2026-2027 to support North Somerset workplaces to introduce physical activity interventions into their workplace that support staff: 

• To become more physically active  

• To encourage employees who are less active to become active 

• To increase the number of minutes of physical activity achieved per week by employees 
• To enjoy taking part in physical activity. 

What kind of things can workplaces apply for funding for? 

Examples of physical activities that workplaces could apply for funding for are a 6 week course of yoga/pilates, kettle bells, an exercise bike for the workplace, walking/running groups, nordic walking to name but a few. The activities could be online or in person and inclusive e.g. chair yoga.  

For inspiration and ideas see our Ideas for physical activity projects document below

What is the purpose of this funding scheme? 

This funding opportunity will address the importance of breaking up sedentary time whilst at work, getting active and all the physical and wellbeing benefits it can offer, as well as showing commitment to employees from the organisations that staff are valued and taken care of. 

Longer term aims are to continue to improve physical activity levels at work and beyond. This funding can be used as a springboard to other activities and improve wellbeing and relationships within the workplace.

Who is eligible to apply for this funding? 

 The scheme will allow small and medium-sized enterprises (SME’s) and other workplaces who may find accessing funds for establishing getting active groups challenging. It will be an opportunity for workplaces who don’t have local activities in close enough geographical vicinity for employees to attend during the working day by bringing the activity into the workplace. Workplaces will be encouraged to consult with employees as to the most appropriate type of activity depending on their particular workforce, with particular emphasis on encouraging those who are less active to become gradually more active during their working day.    

To be eligible for this funding you will need to meet the follow criteria: 

1. Your workplace is in in North Somerset 
2. If your workplace is a private enterprise, it has less than 250 staff. All public sector and charity workplaces can apply despite the number of staff.  
3. The physical activity intervention targets staff who may be inactive or fairly active e.g. not meeting the recommended physical activity guidelines of 150 minutes of moderate physical activity per week 
4. Participants in the intervention complete a pre and post physical activity questionnaire
5. The workplace completes an end of intervention evaluation form (provided by Healthy Workplaces team)

Evaluation forms 

Following your physical activity in the workplace we ask that you complete a simple evaluation form, which would include feedback from the participants. 

How much funding can we apply for? 

This scheme is an opportunity for workplaces to apply for £400 (total funding scheme of £3,000) of funding to establish a physical activity scheme within their workplace.   

What are we looking for? 

A review panel will look at all the applications and mark them using these criteria. The higher the score the more likely funding will be allocated. 

1. Physical activity intervention and why it was chosen 
2. How the intervention will benefit staff 
3. Evidence of consultation with staff to ensure uptake 
4. Sustainability of the model beyond the duration of the funding scheme

What is not included in this funding

Funding for individuals to attend courses of exercise classes external to the workplace. Instead, why not look at the Go4Free offer on our Get Active page.

How to apply for funding 

Please complete the application form to be considered for this funding. (Please note: applications close 31 January 2027)

Dates for your diary

• 1 December 2026 – Healthy Workplaces Physical Activity Funding Scheme opens for applications

• 31 January 2027 – Funding scheme closes for applications

• Early March 2027 – Applicants notified of funding decisions

• March 2027 – Grant agreements completed and payments arranged

• 1 April 2027 – Start date for workplace physical activity interventions

• 1 October 2027 – End of workplace physical activity interventions 

• 14 October 2027– deadline for evaluation form submissions
• November 2027 – Healthy Workplaces Celebratory Event and sharing of outcomes, learning and impact.