Who, Where & Why...
Tracey is one of our Volunteer Wellness Walk Leaders.
Tracey 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.
Tracey is based in glorious Gwynedd.
Tell us a bit about your journey to becoming a Wellness Walk Leader
My passion for nature, outdoor adventures, and connecting with others, inspired me to apply to be a Wellness Walks Leader. The outdoors has positively impacted my mental health and I want to share how it could help others.
So when a friend shared the Outdoor Partnership’s post about applying to become a walk leader through Wellness Walks, which enables you to take people out safely, I applied and was so happy that I got accepted.
What were your expectations before training started? How did you feel?
I expected that I would improve my navigation skills and learn how to confidently lead a group outdoors. However, the experience turned out to be far more than I anticipated and I loved how happy I was throughout the training.
Which part of the qualification process did you enjoy the most & why?
I hoped to enhance my practical knowledge, but I also came away with greater confidence, a sense of achievement, and a renewed appreciation for the value of teamwork and connection in outdoor leadership.
I enjoyed the MHFA training the most and would like to pursue holistic approaches to mental health using mindfulness to support others.
What was the most challenging part of gaining your qualifications?
For me, I would say the navigation on the assessment day. The conditions were challenging, and the ground was covered in foliage which made finding the defined paths difficult.
What's been the personal inpact of becoming a Wellness Walk Leader?
The whole experience turned out to be far more than I anticipated. Beyond the technical aspects, I discovered personal growth and gained a deeper understanding of my capabilities. The training challenged me to step outside my comfort zone, strengthening my resilience, communication, and decision-making skills.
Can you share a memorable moment from one of your walks?
I love sharing with people how to be mindful on the walks – being able to stop, listen, and smell what is around us. Taking that time to be present in the walk rather than just walk.
It’s also really great when people tell you how much they’ve enjoyed a walk you’ve put on!
How has this role impacted your own mental health, confidence, or skills?
It’s made me realise how important being outdoors is and the healing it can bring. My confidence continues to grow and this summer I did my first solo backpack trip!
Final Thoughts
If you could give one piece of advice to someone considering volunteering with Wellness Walks, what would it be?
Just do it.
You will learn a lot about yourself and how supporting others can enhance your confidence.
Where do you think your own journey with Wellness Walks will go?
I would love to become a mentor for new members and yes I would also love to continue with more qualifications in the Outdoors and in Mental Health.
How would you describe your experience with Wellness Walks in three words?
Inspirational. Confidence-building. Fun.