Labour MPs and Liverpool schoolchildren unite to demonstrate the impact of regular exercise at Labour Party Conference

A health and wellbeing initiative that aims to get children exercising 15 minutes a day partnered with London Marathon Events to coordinate an exercise event at the Labour Party Conference.

The Daily Mile, supported by INEOS, is a social, physical activity, with children running, wheeling or walking for 15 minutes with friends. The aim is to improve the mental health and wellbeing of pupils, as research has shown just 15 minutes of exercise is beneficial for pupils’ cognition and wellbeing.

The event brought together MPs and local Liverpool schoolchildren to demonstrate the role of physical activity and its impact on the health and wellbeing of children.

Earlier this year, the Labour Party unveiled its ‘Child Health Action Plan,’ pledging to adopt a ‘preventative-first approach’ to this critical challenge. At the Labour Party Conference in Liverpool, that commitment was reinforced.

Kim Leadbeater MP, an advocate for children’s health, emphasised the importance of initiatives like The Daily Mile within the government’s broader strategy. Kim said: “I’m delighted that the new Labour government is already taking the first steps towards tackling both the crisis in the NHS and the health inequalities we inherited.

“With the state of the public finances, it is more important than ever to look at cost-effective and practical measures we can promote now – and The Daily Mile is a brilliant example of that.

“And let’s not forget that MPs are people too and we need to look after own health in what is a pretty stressful environment, so it’s great to see so many of my colleagues taking part.”

Gordon Banks, global director of The Daily Mile Foundation highlighted some evidence that supports physical activity for children.

The Daily Mile Foundation showed that schools incorporatiing just 15 minutes of outdoor activity each day within curriculum time can significantly boost physical and mental health.

Ben Cooper, head of School Engagement at London Marathon Events, emphasised the critical role of regular physical activity in the lives of children and young people, saying: “The Daily Mile is a powerful example of how small, consistent actions can create significant, lasting improvements in children’s lives.

“At London Marathon Events, we work to inspire activity in all ages, abilities and demographics and The Daily Mile is so effective in inspiring children to enjoy and benefit from regular physical activity.”

The Daily Mile Foundation and London Marathon Events are working in collaboration with national and local partners to create more opportunities for children and young people to have the opportunity to be regularly active.