Following a free training event organised by South Somerset District Council, newly trained volunteers will be able to lead walks in Wincanton, Ilminster, Yeovil, Langport, Martock and Ash.
The popular Health Walk leader training day was fully booked and volunteers received information on everything they needed to know to lead a successful walk – including details on risk assessments, route planning, first aid and the benefits of exercise.
Charlie Coward, Healthy Lifestyles Officer at South Somerset District Council, explained more about health walks in South Somerset, “Health Walks are increasingly popular locally with the Walking for Health, Health Walks scheme going from strength to strength in recent years. The scheme – which is run by South Somerset District Council – now offers 16 regular walking opportunities in the district and has more than 50 active volunteers.
“Due to the increased success of our scheme we now produce a South Somerset Health Walks Directory three times a year. This is available across the district in a variety of outlets and on our website. This is a great way for residents to find their nearest and most suitable walk.”
Health Walks in South Somerset create more opportunities for people to exercise in their local community, reducing the need to travel and providing low cost activity. The walks in South Somerset are sustainable and enable people to explore their local countryside whilst becoming more active and sociable in a safe environment.
To find out more about health walks in South Somerset visit www.southsomerset.gov.uk/healthwalks or to find out about the next Health Walk Leader training course contact Charlie Coward on 01935 462347.