Rural and Remote Families

This consultation project emerged in response to growing evidence that less active families in BC – particularly those impacted by systemic and intersectional barriers – face unique challenges that require targeted, community-informed solutions.

Families living in rural and remote communities face intersecting challenges, including a lack of options for programs being offered, missing infrastructure, and geographic distance from recreation facilities.

Challenges such as affordability, lack of inclusive programming and inadequate infrastructure were common experiences throughout the consultation project, but these common factors are shaped by nuances that are rooted in intersecting identities, histories, and contexts. All of these remind leaders, decision-makers, and advocates that a one-size-fits-all approach is not enough to achieve true equity in supporting physical activity for all families in BC.

The Recommendations:

• Implement proactive monitoring of behaviour and social dynamics. Equip recreation leaders with tools and authority to address bullying and exclusion in real-time.
• Integrate mental health and mindset education into physical activity. Teach youth that physical activity is for joy, well-being, and self-care – not just performance.
• Create more sensory-friendly spaces and activities. Youth in rural and remote communities recommended adapting lighting, noise levels, and group size to accommodate sensory needs.
• Offer a diversity of physical activity options that reflect community strengths and interests. Youth from rural and remote communities want to participate in more diverse offerings such as yoga, hiking, self-defence, dance, nature-based activities, and non-competitive recreation.
• Facilitate community-building and knowledge sharing through inclusive activity programs. Physical programming should have more emphasis on collaboration, peer support, and shared growth in physical activity environments.
• Provide free or accessible equipment to reduce cost barriers. Youth from rural and remote communities recommended equipment libraries, swap programs, or gym spaces that provide gear at no cost. Ensuring youth have access to what they need eliminates a key barrier to participation. Youth also recommended programs include “try-it” nights, youth passes, and equipment rentals at no charge.
• Centre equity and community priorities in recreation policy and planning. Families from rural and remote communities recommended developing rural-focused physical activity strategies that address geographic barriers, cost burdens, and limited options.

Read the full report here.

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