Evaluation of ‘The Exercise Effect’: A pilot project integrating an exercise practitioner into outpatient mental health services in Ireland

In April 2019, a submission for funding was made to the Sláintecare Integration Fund (2019) to establish the ‘Exercise Effect’ project, including an independent evaluation of the project. The Exercise Effect builds on a longstanding collaborative partnership between key stakeholders, Health Service Executive (HSE) South East Wexford Mental Health Services, Sports Active Wexford (SAW) (a Local Sports Partnership) and Waterford Institute of Technology (WIT). Exercise is well recognised as a therapeutic tool that can benefit a range of mental health symptoms and cognitive function among trans-diagnostic mental health populations. Exercise interventions are also a valuable resource for improving the disproportionately poor physical health states of people with mental disorders. This report presents a detailed account of the Exercise Effect project and the findings from the research evaluation undertaken.