We recently sat down with Chris Finnegan, Marketing and Communications Manager at the Design Council, an independent charity established by Winston Churchill in 1944 who campaign for “Better life through design.”

Their upcoming event is an attempt to bring together multiple disciplines to figure out how we can create a world that encourages a more active lifestyle, so we wanted to ask Chris more about the role events can play in fostering long-term change.

How long has Active by Design been running and what is its purpose?

The Active by Design campaign aims to highlight the pandemic of physical inactivity in the UK, and how we can combat it by redesigning our living and workspaces. It launched in April 2014, with our first one-day interactive Summit coming up on 18 September.

How can better design help people be more active?  Do you have an example?

Design can help spread this message and encourage people to lead more active lifestyles, whether that’s from signage to help people walk to their destinations rather than take public transport or the brilliant ‘Pop-up Parks’ featuring at the Summit that help children in built up areas be more active. ‘Active’ doesn’t necessarily mean exercise – even increasing your activity in small ways, such as taking the stairs instead of the lift or getting off the bus one stop early can have a positive impact on your health.

Who does this issue affect?

This issue effects every one of us. There are over 30,000 premature deaths and millions of pounds spent every year due to illnesses caused physical inactivity such as diabetes and even some cancers. Research shows a link between activity levels, social cohesion and happiness – in short, the more active we are, the healthier and happier we are.

What kinds of professionals and institutions are involved in helping solve the issue?

This unique event will bring together professionals from different disciplines, including design, built environment, public health and local government.

Why do you think events are a good vehicle for creating positive change?

Events are a great way to collaborate, and it’s usually when disparate ideas meet that big breakthroughs happen. Events are also great for networking, and this is important when trying to enact long-term change. The Active by Design Summit is going to have lots of time and space dedicated to networking. There’ll be people in the room together that would otherwise probably not ever meet face-to-face, swapping experiences and ideas that may lead to working relationships. That’s incredibly important, not least in a cross-sector campaign such as Active by Design.

What can attendees expect from Active by Design?

Attendees of the Summit can expect an interactive day full of expert talks, peer-to-peer knowledge sharing and networking opportunities. You will discover how we can redesign our living and working spaces to promote day-to-day physical activity, and how you can get involved.

Where can those interested in attending find out more information and register for Active by Design?

You can find out more information including our exciting speaker line up and full agenda on our Eventbrite page. Register today to find out how you can get involved in the movement revolutionising our built environment and improving the health of the nation.