Free Walk Leader training
Free Walk Leader training
The Walking for Health initiative is looking for enthusiastic people to come forward and train as walk leaders
East Hampshire District Council supports the scheme which aims to improve people’s health and wellbeing through regular walks led by trained volunteers.
As well as the health benefits the walks also encourage those who do not have the confidence to go out walking on their own to get out and meet other like-minded individuals and make new friends.
Walking for Health is co-ordinated by Louise Christie, Active Lifestyle Co-ordinator at EHDC.
She said: “We offer this one-day fun and informal training day for free and at the end of it you will receive a certificate qualifying you to lead walks safely.
“After that you will be fully supported to become integrated as a volunteer with one of your local walks, or even start up a new one if you wish.
“The commitment we ask from you is totally flexible. Some people like to get involved every week, while others simply want to help out once every few months. The choice will be yours.
“Also you do not need to be extremely fit to become a leader, you only need to be able to walk for about an hour, but the qualities you do need are to be friendly and approachable with a desire to help people.
“The Walking for Health scheme has now been running in East Hampshire for the last seven years and has continued to go from strength to strength. We now have 17 regular walks which anyone can attend for free. The walks last for about an hour and people are able to walk at their own pace.
“The feedback that I have received from both the walkers and leaders over the years has been tremendous. They feel like they are part of a family and it has helped many individuals overcome isolation, or the loneliness of suddenly becoming widowed. Most groups also organise social events so the benefits of becoming involved with a Walking for Health group are endless.”
The next free training day is running on Monday 10 October between 10am and 4pm at the EHDC Council Offices in Petersfield. As part of the training volunteers are taken for a short walk through a beautiful nature reserve by the River Rother. Lunch is provided.
To book a place or for further information about Walking for Health, call Louise Christie on 01730 234067 or email louise.christie@easthants.gov.uk or visit our website at www.getactivenow.org.uk.
CONTACT: Louise Christie, EHDC Active Lifestyle Co-ordinator, 01730 234067. louise.christie@easthants.gov.uk
Added on: 28/09/11. Views: 220
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