We helped women to try new things and spark change.
In 2020, women aged 45 – 54 were among the least active groups in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight. We wanted to understand why and harness the energy of local women to create change. So we recruited female mystery shoppers to help.
I’m recently separated, looking for a new experience and to gain energy and meet new friends.
Mystery Shopper, Havant
Our mystery shoppers were all Hampshire women aged 45-54. Before the project, they were doing little or no exercise. Each of them had their own reasons why. They all wanted to be more active. Yet something was stopping them.
I have been thinking about some exercise to help with weight loss and now the children have left home l do have some spare time.
Mystery Shopper, Havant
National research revealed a lot about what prevented women from being active. But we wanted to test whether there were practical local issues at play. So we teamed up with local women to experience finding and joining a new activity from their perspective.
We paid for our mystery shoppers to take part in an activity of their choice for eight weeks. They then shared feedback at every stage of the process, from the ease of searching for activities to the experience of attending.
We’re now using their experiences to help local activity providers fine-tune their sessions and how they promote them.
I've noticed that I'm sleeping better and my mental health has really improved.
Mystery Shopper, Havant
After eight weeks, all of the women wanted to continue their activities. They felt healthier and were enjoying other benefits, such as improved sleep. Some had made new friends. Three ladies with long-term health conditions said their symptoms had improved.
One member of the group went from doing less than 30 minutes of exercise per week to doing nearer 300!
Helping us tackle inactivity to boost health and happiness
