A BOLD new character is set to pop up across Dumfries and Galloway – and he’s on a mission to get people moving.
DG Domore, a newly launched illustrated mascot, is the eye-catching face of a major push to tackle inactivity, with scenes showing him and a cast of characters running, cycling and getting involved in community activities.
Residents are being urged to keep an eye out for DG Domore as he begins appearing across the region – helping point people towards simple, local ways to be more active.
The campaign brings fresh energy to the Dumfries and Galloway Physical Activity Strategy, launched at DGOne in Dumfries, which aims to help people become “more active, more often” and stay healthier for longer.
Health officials warn that inactivity and low fitness levels can increase the risk of serious illness, injury and even hospital stays.
Lynne Mann, Lead AHP, Dumfries and Galloway’s Community Health and Social Care, said the new character could make a real difference.
She said: “DG Domore gives the strategy something people can instantly recognise.
“He brings the message to life in a way that feels practical and achievable. When people see him out and about, taking part in everyday activities, it helps them think – I could do that, too.
“We’d encourage everyone to look out for DG Domore and follow where he leads; there are opportunities all around to get moving.”
A key part of the strategy is the Active Lives Pathway, which offers people with or at risk of health conditions access to free, supported physical activity to help them recover and build confidence.
The need is clear, as more than a third of adults in the region – and around half of school-age children – are not active enough to meet national guidelines.
Valerie White, Director of Public Health, said turning plans into action is now the priority.
Ms White said: “We’ve set ambitious targets, but campaigns like this help make them real.
“Having a strong, visible identity like DG Domore means people are more likely to notice what’s on offer and feel encouraged to take part.
“Being active is one of the most important things we can do for our physical health, our mental wellbeing, and staying connected to others.”
Isabel McKnight, Deputy Chief Executive of Third Sector Dumfries and Galloway, said the campaign could help bridge a crucial gap.
“There’s no shortage of ways to get active, the real challenge is helping people discover the opportunities already around them.
“DG Domore makes it easier for people to connect with activities already happening in their communities, through a trusted, familiar experience that feels simple, welcoming, and local.”
Councillor Tracey Little, Chair of Dumfries and Galloway Council’s Education, Skills and Community Wellbeing Committee, said:
“Helping people to build more activity into their everyday lives is an important part of improving health and wellbeing across Dumfries and Galloway.
“Campaigns like this make that feel more accessible and achievable, particularly for children, young people and families.
“DG Domore offers a positive and engaging way to connect people with opportunities in their communities, and to encourage lifelong healthy habits that support both physical and mental wellbeing.”
The strategy has been developed by a multi-agency partnership, working with national experts, and supports the Scottish Government’s wider efforts to improve population health.
And as DG Domore starts appearing across Dumfries and Galloway, the message is simple – get involved, get active, and get moving.
A Physical Activity Forum has been created, with a call for those with a local role in physical activity to get involved.
Anybody who is involved in the delivery of physical activity locally – whether that’s sport, movement, walking groups, dancing groups – is being encouraged to join the forum, hear about the strategy, and help in delivering its objectives.
To join the Physical Activity Forum, visit this link: https://dgdoingmore.co.uk/physical-activity-strategy/
