NHS to reward daily walkers with shopping vouchers under new health scheme

The NHS is set to launch a new initiative that could reward people with shopping vouchers and discounts for walking at least 20 minutes a day, as part of a nationwide drive to encourage healthier lifestyles.

The programme, called Movement 26.2, aims to get people walking the equivalent of a marathon each month by building regular exercise into their daily routines. Participants will be able to log their walks using a smartphone or smartwatch, with rewards available for meeting activity goals.

The scheme is expected to launch in January and is being led by former Olympic medallist Sir Brendan Foster alongside Air Miles founder Sir Keith Mills. NHS officials are in discussions with high street and online retailers to provide incentives similar to supermarket loyalty rewards, including shopping vouchers and discounts.

Health leaders hope the initiative will help tackle physical inactivity, which is estimated to cost the NHS around £1 billion each year and is linked to conditions including heart disease, type 2 diabetes and obesity. Around one in three adults in the UK currently fail to meet the recommended levels of physical activity.

NHS Chief Executive Sir Jim Mackey said the campaign is designed to make exercise a simple part of everyday life and improve both physical and mental wellbeing. The challenge is intended to be accessible to as many people as possible, with provisions expected for those with disabilities.

Participants will earn digital rewards initially, with vouchers and retail discounts expected to be introduced as the programme develops. Organisers hope the scheme will motivate people to maintain healthy habits while reducing long-term pressure on NHS services.

The campaign forms part of the NHS's wider 10-Year Health Plan, which focuses on prevention and helping people live healthier, longer lives through regular physical activity and lifestyle improvements.