LiveWire is looking for volunteers to help lead their popular free Health Walks around Warrington this summer.
The Community Interest Company, which manages Leisure, Lifestyles and Library services in Warrington, has recently restarted its weekly Health Walks programme following lockdown easing.
The walks, run by LiveWire’s Lifestyles team, encourage people to experience the wonderful wildlife and wild spaces in Warrington, while enjoying a healthy walk.
Walking is a low-impact exercise that has been shown to reduce the risk of chronic illnesses, such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, dementia plus getting out in the fresh air with friends can help combat loneliness and depression.
And with more people than ever rediscovering walking as an enjoyable form over-exercise over the past year – demand for places on the walks is higher than ever, meaning LiveWire is looking for volunteers to help lead some walks.
Matthew Fairhurst, Lifestyles Advisor for LiveWire, said: “it has been wonderful to be able to relaunch our Health Walks following lockdown – and they are as popular as ever. Many people have increased their walking habits ever over the past year and rediscovered a new-found appreciation for what is a fantastic activity for both your body and your mind.
“Our walks are ideal for those who would like to get outside, get fitter, and be a little more social. They are weekly guided walks around green and open spaces in an around Warrington and range from 30 minutes and build up to longer 90-minute routes. They are free to join and be attended as often as you like and be a significant benefit to your physical health and mental well-being.
“However in order to be able to offer as many or as diverse walks as we would like, we are appealing for volunteers who can offer some of their time to lead some walks. It’s a great way to help others in your community to get active and healthy, providing vital support to people – whilst staying active themselves.
“A volunteer will provide that opportunity to show others what a great town Warrington is for walking, ie lots of green spaces, lots of wildlife and nature and little or no hills. If you’re a keen walker who thinks the walking boot might fit – please get in touch.”
No previous experience of leading groups is necessary as full training and on-going support will be available to volunteers and be flexible to suit around their free time.
All walks are designed for a wide range of abilities but they may include muddy and uneven ground or stiles. Walks are subject to Covid secure procedures and participants must pre-book their place on each walk no more than 7 days in advance
For more information on LiveWire’s Health Walks programme including how to sign up please visit https://livewirewarrington.co.uk/lifestyle/health-walks or call 0300 003 0818 for more information about vounteering. You can also email [email protected]
LiveWire Advisor Matt Fairhurst
