Who, Where & Why...
Jo is one of our Volunteer Wellness Walk Leaders and is also joining our instructional team.
Jo is a fully qualified Mountain Leader & like all of the team she also has qualifications in First Aid for Mental Health, Outdoor First Aid and Safeguarding.
Jo is based in Cumbria but often found in the Yorkshire Dales.
Tell us a bit about your journey to becoming a Wellness Walk Leader
I love being part of other people’s journeys & helping them achieve what they wouldn’t have done on their own – so volunteering for Wellness Walks feels like a really nice way of making that happen.
What were your expectations before training started? How did you feel?
I had little expectations before starting ML training – it was gruelling but definitely worth it. I gained an amazing qualification which makes me feel totally confident taking groups in to the fells.
Which part of the qualification process did you enjoy the most & why?
Having an excuse to plan adventures – because life often gets in the way of doing that.
What's been the personal inpact of becoming a Wellness Walk Leader?
I’ve realised how much I love sharing my skills & knowledge & experience with others.
And I get to spend time outside, I get to create space for others to spend time in nature & we get to share some pretty special moments.
Can you share a memorable moment from one of your walks?
Hearing someone say she had never gone up on to the fell top before & she was 60yrs old!
 How has this role impacted your own mental health, confidence, or skills?
My mental health is always better when I spend time outside. My skills have been built on & my confidence has increased.
Recieving really positive feedback from participants makes me know I’m doing a good thing – which is very rewarding.
Final Thoughts
 If you could give one piece of advice to someone considering volunteering with Wellness Walks, what would it be?
Do it! Don’t hesitate.
Where do you think your own journey with Wellness Walks will go?
I hope to continue gaining experience leading groups and I’m really looking forward to joining the instructional team and helping people develop their own skills.
How would you describe your experience with Wellness Walks in three words?
Positive. Inspiring. Motivating.
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