Who, Where & Why...
Jane is one of our Volunteer Wellness Walk Leaders.
Jane is a fully qualified Lowland Leader & like all of the team she also has qualifications in First Aid for Mental Health, Outdoor First Aid and Safeguarding.
Jane is based in Lancashire.
Tell us a bit about your journey to becoming a Wellness Walk Leader
I enjoy being outside and talking! Being retired l have time to give something back and hopefully encourage people to get outside and improve physical and mental health.
What were your expectations before training started? How did you feel?
I was a little apprehensive at the start and tried to remember all l had learnt years before on a navigation course. However l need not have worried, all the trainers were very friendly and helpful. I did gain valuable mental health first aid training alongside outside first aid and group leadership skills.
Which part of the qualification process did you enjoy the most & why?
The friendships that developed over our time together. Having previous knowledge eg navigation reinforced and developed.
What's been the personal inpact of becoming a Wellness Walk Leader?
I’m not sure if it has changed me, but I definitely feel more confident in my walk leading abilities. I also really enjoy meeting new people who come on the walks.
I also like supporting people who wouldn’t go out walking without the safety of a group.
Can you share a memorable moment from one of your walks?
I recently led a group to Wainwrights memorial in Witton Park and a group member was very pleased to see it as they had wanted to visit it for some time but hadn’t the confidence to go on their own.
What feedback or comments have you had from participants on your walks?
It always feels nice when they say “thank you”.
There have been some “kind words” left for me on the website which is lovely. Most people say they have enjoyed the walks and the fact that l try to include local history, social history or a bit of flora or fauna knowledge.
Final Thoughts
 If you could give one piece of advice to someone considering volunteering with Wellness Walks, what would it be?
Do it, it isn’t as daunting as you might think.
Where do you think your own journey with Wellness Walks will go?
I think I will try different locations and I’d be happy to help new volunteers and leaders.
How would you describe your experience with Wellness Walks in three words?
Informative. Fun. empowering.
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