FaME programme recognised with public health research award

Mike Sandys, Director of Public Health at Leicestershire County Council, received the Research Award for implementing the Falls Management Exercise programme based on research funded by the NIHR Applied Research Collaborations (ARC) and initiated by ARC East Midlands across Leicestershire, which has already benefitted 3,000 older adults.

Known locally in the county as Steady Steps, the FaME programme is a 24-week exercise initiative for people aged 65 and over, designed to improve strength and balance and reduce the risk of falls.

The programme is delivered by a specially trained instructor and combines group-based strength and balance sessions with individual assessments and wellbeing support.

Research from NIHR ARC East Midlands and the University of Nottingham has shown that the FaME programme leads to significant reductions in falls among older adults, along with notable improvements in balance and strength.

These findings have shaped local commissioning and events featured in the World Health Organisation Step Safely report. The current NIHR ARC-funded FLEXI study focuses on reaching underserved groups, ensuring equitable access for all. 

Through collaboration, innovation and a strong commitment to evidence-based practice, Mike Sandys and his team have improved confidence, independence and quality of life for older adults.

Commenting on the award win, Mike Sandys said: “I am delighted that we have been recognised for our use of evidence to improve population health. 

“Through collaboration, the team and our wider partners have translated academic research into sustainable, real-world practice.”

He added: “Steady Steps has had huge impact on improving the quality of life of thousands of residents across Leicestershire.”

Professor Elizabeth Orton, Professor of Public Health in the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences at the University of Nottingham and the Building Community Resilience and Enabling Independence Theme Lead for the NIHR ARC East Midlands, said: “Being able to successfully demonstrate the outcomes of an evidence-based programme has informed decisions to invest further into FaME (Steady Steps), making it a key programme in the falls care pathway.”

The recognition was formally announced at a special ceremony in London on Friday, November 21. 

The FaME programme continues to be delivered across Leicestershire under Steady Steps. For more information on local courses, click here.

The FaME Implementation Toolkit is now available online. To access the Toolkit and for more information, visit here.