Who are we leaving behind? Mobilising exercise professionals to improve mental health and social equity

Abstract Clinical exercise professionals (CEPs) play a key role in supporting people with mental and physical health challenges. Yet access to services is inequitable, especially for ‘hard to reach’ or underserved populations such as people who have experienced trauma and social disadvantage, who could benefit most from exercise support. Through a socio-ecological lens, we discuss how limited referral pathways, variable workforce preparedness, and a lack of exercise integration within safe, equity-oriented systems of care contribute to underutilisation of CEPs. To deliver equitable care, we discuss strengthening workforce capacity through cultural responsiveness and trauma- and violence-informed care training. Partnerships and models of collaborative, community-based services are presented. We call to action various stakeholders to support activation of the CEP workforce to create appropriate physical activity opportunities for underserved populations.