How we get around has a huge impact on not only our own health but the health of our society as a whole. The individual benefits of active travel, such as walking and cycling, reduce the risk of conditions, such as type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease, associated with a sedentary lifestyle. Meanwhile, this form of travel is more sustainable and can reduce the levels of air pollution, and associated health risks, in a city such as Cardiff. But can and should the NHS influence the way we choose to travel?

In this episode, we chat to Dr Tom Porter, a Consultant in Public Health Medicine, about the work he is leading on in Cardiff and Vale UHB to try and encourage a large-scale shift in how we all get around. We discuss the unique Welsh legislation of the Wellbeing of Future Generations Act, the benefits of active travel and the dangers of an over-reliance on cars (including their contribution to social isolation), and how the health board is working alongside local councils to create large-scale organisational change.

If you'd like to know more, please contact me via e-mail at [email protected] or on Twitter @CV_UHB