"as many people as possible"
Those words form a core part of Wellness Walks mission statement:
“we want to help as many people as possible, in as many places as possible, to get out into nature in a safe and supported way”
But.
The reality is that not everyone is able, or wants to, join us for a walk. Some face physical challenges, others might just not feel ready, others might simply have never tried.
So we went looking for a way to support those people on the journey of discovering the benefits of spending time outside with other people – and that’s how we arrived at Wellness-on-Water.
What are we trying to do?
We don’t think there’s “one right solution” to the complexities of supporting people to get into nature – everyone is unique. But. If we can offer different ways to access nature, to interact with your peers, to learn you can when maybe you’ve always been told you can’t – then that has to be a good thing.
Nearly all the team at Wellness Walks are also keen paddlers – indeed we have some exceptionally talented and qualified instructors working with us. Some of us are lucky enough to live near water – to understand the powerfully restorative nature of engaging with a different element for a while.
Paddling – time on the water with others – its a perfect form of therapeutic endeavour – busy enough to lose distractions – easy enough to engage in conversation, stunning enough to give everything a sense of scale and perspective.
So what's wellness-on-water?
We spoke with stakeholders (other organisations), potential participants (for a while we’ve let people join our minibus trips simply for companionship even if they couldn’t manage a walk) and our fabulous instructional team.
In 2025 we ran trial sessions – a variety of craft, differing abilities – all based around getting out onto the water in a safe supported way – we learnt lots and got great feedback – the message was clear – participants felt empowered, many were profoundly rewarded by the experience – stakeholders wanted to engage with the concept.
So we set to work – research on exactly the right kit, strategic partnerships and, of course, fundraising.
Where are we up to?
We’ve now raised nearly 60% of the funds we need to run a full programme for 2026.
We’re able to purchase a specialist double-hulled canoe that’s wide, stable, and designed for shared experiences on the water. Its supportive structure makes it ideal for mixed-ability groups, giving everyone — regardless of balance, strength, or mobility — the chance to take part, connect with nature, and paddle side by side.
Paddlers will know that’s the least of it though – there’s also a range of buoyancy aids, special paddles, watertight storage – and that’s before we start to look at other types of craft.
But – we’ll now definitely be on the water in 2026, so…
If paddling has been foundational to your sense of self – or if you just think this sounds like a really great way to help others get in to nature – then please think about making a donation to get Wellness-on-Water to its target.
And – if you’re an individual or organisation that thinks they could benefit from this – use the contact form to get in touch and we’ll see how we can help make it happen.