Anne and I moved in our retirement to East Ayrshire four and a half years ago after living all our life in Nottingham. This was a very difficult decision for us because although we were moving to be near our son and grandson, we were leaving all our life-long friends behind.
After moving we didn’t know anyone or the area. Unfortunately, Anne struggled to adjust and became very depressed, also I had mobility issues with arthritic knees.
Then we found the Monday Health Walk group through Kilmarnock Active Travel Hub. Joining helped us to get out and meet new friends which also helped to improve Anne’s mental health issues and has also helped with my mobility.
Now four years later we have become Health Walk Leader and would like to share with other people the benefits of joining and subsequently volunteering on a Health Walk.
Find out more about Kilmarnock Active Travel Hub's Health Walk on our website or their Facebook page.
They are a Scottish Health Walk Network member offering free, safe, welcoming, and accessible walks to everyone.
If you volunteer as a Health Walk Leader you don't just help others to become more physically active, you will:
- Learn new skills
- Feel more involved in your community
- Gain a sense of achievement
- Boost your career options
- Develop a new interest
- Meet a diverse range of people
- Improve your communication and interpersonal skills
- Improve your own health and well-being
- Feel more self-confident
- Learn more about your local area
Find out more about becoming a Volunteer Walk Leader here.