Table 3 Themes and sub-themes from thematic analysis of qualitative interviews

1 - Individual differences in needs and responses to NERS

1a - The referral process: motivating patients or identifying motivated patients

1b - Demographic patterning in responses to NERS

2 - Facilitating uptake, adherence and long term behavioural change

2a - Promoting uptake through overcoming initial anxieties

2b - Supporting confidence and motivation through education and interpersonal support

2c - Modifying the exercise environment to minimise anxieties throughout the programme

2d - Fostering social networks supportive of long-term change