Table 1 Overview of themes and subthemes derived from interviews from parkrun Outreach Ambassadors

Theme 1

Sub-theme 1a

parkrun has always been supportive of people with LTCs

“there’s nothing formal, I would say but everybody was welcomed in one way or another” (P02, carer)

Sub-theme 1b

Support from parkrun to engage those with LTCs could be more structured

“There are instances where people who, whilst there’s no formal structure, have a huge amount of support. At the same time that doesn’t always happen, and there are parkruns that, through omission rather than by aim, don’t make it particularly easy for those with long-term conditions.” (P08, living with the LTC)

Sub-theme 1c

The PROVE project is a strategic approach to inclusivity and publicity

“It’s a great project in terms of what it’s trying to do. It hits on many different agendas and government initiatives trying to get the inactive active, which is great” (P15, specialist)

Theme 2

Sub-theme 2a

Encouraging more parkrun participants who have LTCs

“The ultimate success would be increased numbers of people with [health condition] taking part, that’s the overriding objective” (P09, carer)

Sub-theme 2b

Creating a safe space for people with LTCs

“A longer term aim is to influence healthcare professionals, politicians and third sector agencies like charities to promote … that parkrun is a safe place, to give doctors confidence to tell people go along.” (P11, living with the LTC)

Sub-theme 2c

Being able to demonstrate sustainability of the PROVE project

“in terms of a sustainable model, volunteers is a great way, because it’s cost-effective” (P15, specialist)

Theme 3

Sub-theme 3a

Being realistic about the potential for change

“readjust and focus more on certain conditions where there’s a lower level of participation” (P15, specialist)

Sub-theme 3b

Challenging perceptions of what parkrun is and who it is for

“what we really need to be trying to get out there is, it is acceptable to come along to parkrun and walk” (P05, living with the LTC)

Sub-theme 3c

Engaging with key stakeholders and advocacy groups

“Being recognised by the health service and by the advocacy groups for the conditions is key” (P05, living with the LTC)

Sub-theme 3d

Selecting Outreach Ambassadors with appropriate qualities

“Passion. Persistence. Resilience. Stamina. Optimism” (P03, carer)

Theme 4

Sub-theme 4a

parkrun communication channels have limited reach

“The limitations will potentially come from lines of communication not being robust enough” (P03, carer)

Sub-theme 4b

Difficulty demonstrating impact

“How do we know whether or not people have been encouraged to attend?” (P02, carer)

Sub-theme 4c

Success is dependent on volunteers

“It’s a massive piece of work, and to undertake it on top of your day job can be a bit difficult. So it’s about being realistic about what you can and can’t achieve in a short timescale” (P01, specialist)