An event at Havant Plaza was held on 4 December to celebrate the walk leaders who volunteer their time through Wellbeing Walks. It was a chance for everyone to chat about the walks they lead and their plans for the future - and also enjoy delicious cakes made by Park catering services!
The Mayor of Havant, Councillor Rosy Raines, opened the event and thanked the wonderful volunteers who help improve residents’ physical and mental health.
Attendees varied from people leading walks for over 20 years, to brand new walk leaders who are hoping to start new walks in 2024. Some of the walk leaders have their own health issues but continue to turn up to help people in the borough stay active.
Wellbeing Walks, run by the Ramblers, are short, sociable walks lasting between 10 - 90 minutes. Most walks also have a slower option for those who prefer a slower pace. There are currently five walks in the borough:
- Monday - Denmead weekly walk - 11am from Denmead bowls club car park.
- Tuesday - Havant monthly walk - 10:30am from The Spring Arts and Heritage centre (first Tuesday of the month).
- Wednesday - Emsworth area weekly walk - 10:30am, location varies.
- Thursday - Hayling weekly walk - 10am from Beachlands bus stop.
- Friday - North Hayling monthly walk - 10am, location varies.
New walk leader Helen said “My walks are on Fridays in North Hayling. I’ve led six walks so far and have thoroughly enjoyed it. It is really rewarding, and I’ve never felt like it’s hard work.”
If you would like to check out the current walks available in your local area, visit the Havant Wellbeing Walks page.
Anyone interested in becoming a volunteer walk leader will need to undertake training. This is free, and consists of an online module, followed by three hours of in-person training. If you would like to become a walk leader, please contact sophie.iles@havant.gov.uk