A partnership agreement between the Welsh NHS Confederation and Sport Wales has been described as a “major step” towards a healthcare system based on preventative measures.

In the first agreement of its kind the two organisations are due to sign a memorandum of understanding (MOU), set to create a healthier and more equal Wales.

The three-year MOU will set out six areas of cooperation. These include making people in Wales more active and to encourage people to look after their own health and thereby take care of the health of future generations.

The two will also work together to support the drive for a mass shift in public thinking about their health and exchange information of mutual interest – while developing joint areas of work that promote “sport for all”.

Helen Birtwhistle, director of the Welsh NHS Confederation said: "We know the importance of the links between sport with health and this new memorandum demonstrates a commitment from both sectors to come together to promote healthier living and improve the health and wellbeing of the people of Wales.

"Health cannot be seen as a standalone issue and these strong links with our colleagues in sport are vital in addressing the challenges that we face. Collaborative working is key if we are to drive a mass shift in public thinking and support people to make healthier choices.

"Through this partnership between the Welsh NHS Confederation and Sport Wales, we hope to encourage people of all ages to enjoy more active and healthier lives and take more personal responsibility for their health which will, in turn, help to secure the future of the health service."

Sarah Powell CEO of Sport Wales, added: "This is not just a partnership that sits on paper; we're not just talking about sitting in committees discussing the issues. That would be pointless.

“What we're talking about here is genuine collaborative working to promote healthier, more active living. We will be judged on continuing to increase participation in sport and on the overall health and wellbeing of the nation.

"We have a National Health Service, not a National Sickness Service. We need to help people to stay healthy. We need GPs to consider referring people to undertake activity. We need to work with GPs so that they are aware of local opportunities to get active. Jointly we have the opportunity to lead a revolution in the health of the nation, where everybody is encouraged and able to make positive choices about their health"

To see an infographic on the six areas of cooperation, click here.