Mid Ulster Steps Out for National Walking Month
Walking for All, a new community walking programme and major cross-border initiative led by Outscape and supported by PEACEPLUS, a programme managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB), is getting its walking shoes on.
The programme, which is bringing free, regular walks to rural communities, is inviting everyone in Mid Ulster to step out this May and celebrate National Walking Month by joining a local walk.
National Walking Month takes place every year throughout May encourages people to walk more as a simple, powerful way to improve their physical health, mental wellbeing, and connect with their neighbours. The campaign reports that people who walk regularly reflect being happier and less anxious and have a stronger sense of community when walking.
Walking for All is led by Outscape and delivered in partnership with eight local councils in Northern Ireland and 6 Local Sports partnerships across the border counties of Ireland. The programme aims to engage over 14,000 people in accessible, led walking activities over three years building healthier, more connected rural communities and helping to address social isolation, inactivity and support mental health.
Since its launch in Mid Ulster, Walking for All is already making a difference. Matthew McNicholl, Walking for All Officer, has been working with local communities to establish free, welcoming walking groups right on people's doorsteps, which are led by trained, Walk Leaders from within those communities. The walks take place every week, and last from 10 minutes to 1 hour, and are open to adults of all ages and abilities.
Commenting ahead of National Walking Month, Chair of Mid Ulster District Council, Cllr. Frances Burton said;
"National Walking Month is a great opportunity to remind people that walking is one of the most accessible ways to support physical, mental and social wellbeing. Through Walking for All, we want to make it easier for everyone in Mid Ulster to step out, connect with others, and enjoy the benefits of walking in their local community I’d love to see more people join us this May."
Gareth Moore, Head of Participation, for Outscape and Walking for All adds; "We hope National Walking Month inspires people right across Mid Ulster to step out and discover what Walking for All is all about. Walking for All walks are completely free, they happen every week in the heart of your community, and they are genuinely open to everyone, whatever your background or ability – including those walking and wheeling. We'd love to see more people join us this May."
Walks are already planned in Mid Ulster led by trained Walk Leaders from the local community. All walks are free to attend no special equipment is required. During May, people are encouraged to search for walks in their local area and register via www.walkingforall.com
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Pomeroy Community Shed , every Tuesday from 19 May at 2pm, meet at Unit 8 Rowan Tree Centre Pomeroy
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Knockloughrim Community Partnership, every Thursday from 21 May at 7pm @ Knockloughrim Park
Matthew is also currently offering free Walk Leader training for anyone interested in making a difference in their community by helping others to get active. Walk Leaders receive full support and training, and no previous experience is required.
The next session is on Monday 11th May – 7pm at Coalisland Community Hub, St. Patrick's Hall, 6 Barrack Street, Coalisland, Coalisland, United Kingdom, BT71 4LS
To register or find out more, contact Matthew McNicholl at Matthew.McNicholl@midulstercouncil.org or telephone 07551060201
To search for a walk, register for the programme or find out how to become a Walk Leader, visit www.walkingforall.com