Lead the way to a healthy lifestyle
Mid Sussex District Council tells TSN they're looking for more people to lead free Healthy Walks. And to get things started on the right foot (no pun intended - honest!) they have organised a training course for volunteers on Thursday 10 February.
Mid Sussex District Council organises a range of free Healthy Walks in locations right across the district. The walks are co-ordinated by the Council’s Park Rangers but the majority of walks are actually led by a team of volunteers. Willing volunteers allow the Council to provide even more free Healthy Walks that cater to a wider range of abilities.
Healthy Walks offer participants a great way to stay in shape and enjoy the beautiful Mid Sussex countryside. Recent studies have shown that regular walkers have less incidence of cancer, heart disease, diabetes and many other killer diseases. In addition, walkers live longer and enjoy a better standard of mental health.
The free training course is an all day session and will take place in Haywards Heath on Thursday 10 February. The course will cover all the health benefits of walking, barriers to exercise and all the skills that are needed to plan a route and lead a Healthy Walk. Places must be booked in advance by calling 01444 477561 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .
The Park Rangers Team is looking for leaders for all levels of walk from introductory to advanced. The team would be particularly keen to hear from anybody that would like to work with organisations such as schools, health groups and charities such as Diabetes UK, to help them set up regular walks for their clients/members.
“Becoming a Volunteer Walk Leader helps you to give something back to your community whilst doing something you love,” said Councillor Pru Moore, Cabinet Member for Leisure and Sustainability. “It’s a great way to meet new people, provides fantastic exercise and is very much appreciated by the other walkers taking part.
“It’s fantastic to see so many of our residents getting out in the fresh air and making the most of the Mid Sussex countryside. Great credit must go to the walk leaders because we would not be able to meet the demand for this popular scheme were it not for our band of volunteers.”