Barnsley residents invited to Walk Well

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People in Barnsley are being encouraged to walk for their wellbeing by a local NHS Trust offering guided walks across the town.

Walk Well Barnsley is run by South West Yorkshire Partnership NHS Foundation Trust on behalf of Barnsley Metropolitan Borough Council and gives local residents the chance to increase their activity levels, improve their health and make new friends, regardless of age or ability. The walks are free and are led by experienced, friendly walk leaders.

The duration of the walks range from 15 minutes to an hour and a half and cover areas throughout the borough.

Upcoming events include a free walk for families on Sunday 20 September. Starting at Wigfield Farm, the walk lasts around 45 minutes on flat ground suitable for pushchairs, and includes entry to the farm afterwards.

The scheme is also looking for volunteers to lead walks, providing vital support to people in the community by helping them to stay active and healthy. Full training is given and takes place at Elsecar Heritage Centre from 9:30am – 4:30pm on Friday 25 September.

Rebecca Bibbs, project manager at the Trust, said: “Walking is one of the easiest ways to get yourself active as it’s low impact, can be done at your own pace and doesn’t require any expensive specialist equipment or memberships.

“It’s great for people with long-term conditions such as heart conditions or asthma as you can start off slowly on short walks and gradually build up to going faster across longer distances.

“Walking can improve both your physical and mental health and if you join one of our groups, it will give you the chance to explore the outdoors, get to know your local area and meet new people.”

Anyone taking part in a walk should wear flat, sensible footwear and suitable clothing for the day’s weather. People attending their first health walk are asked to arrive ten minutes early in order to complete a short health questionnaire with the help of a walk leader.

To see a list of upcoming walk dates, search ‘Walk Well Barnsley’ on Facebook or visit www.walkingforhealth.org.uk and search for ‘Barnsley’. To find out more or to book a place on the Wigfield Farm walk or volunteer leader training, contact Rebecca Bibbs on 01226 433351 or email rebecca.bibbs@swyt.nhs.uk.

Barnsley residents invited to Walk Well

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