A new community walking programme is encouraging local people to get active, make new friends and help others discover the benefits of walking.
Walking for All is a vibrant, community-led initiative delivering free, friendly weekly walks across the borough, creating opportunities for people of all ages and abilities to enjoy the outdoors, improve their wellbeing and connect with others.
The programme is now calling on local residents and community groups to get involved by becoming Volunteer Walk Leaders.
Whether you’re a regular walker or simply enjoy spending time outdoors, becoming a Walk Leader is a rewarding way to support your local community. Full training and ongoing support are provided, and there’s no need to be super fit or an experienced hiker – just friendly, reliable and enthusiastic.
Ryan McQuillan, Walking For All Officer, said:
“Walking is one of the simplest ways to improve both physical and mental wellbeing. Walking For All is about bringing people together, building confidence and creating welcoming spaces where everyone feels included. We’d love to see more volunteers come forward to help us grow the programme across the borough.”
Free Walk Leader Training
Anyone interested in leading walks can attend one of the upcoming free training sessions:
- Thursday 30 July – 10.30am, Southern Regional College, Banbridge Campus
- Wednesday 19 August – 10.30am, Armagh City Hotel
The training equips volunteers with the skills and confidence to safely lead enjoyable, inclusive community walks, with ongoing support available every step of the way.
To find out more about Walk Leader training or to start a walk in your local area, contact Ryan McQuillan by emailing ryan.mcquillan@armaghbanbridgecraigavon.gov.uk or calling 07500 099 243.
The programme is already having a positive impact, with a newly trained volunteer now leading regular weekly walks at Loughgall Country Park.
Two walks are available to suit different abilities, both departing from the Pavilion:
Monday Amblers
- Every Monday at 10.30am
- A gentle, flat walk lasting around 15–30 minutes
- Perfect for those who enjoy taking things at a relaxed pace, chatting and spending time in nature.
Friday Striders
- Every Friday at 9.30am
- A brisker walk of up to one hour
- Includes hills and varied terrain for those looking for a more energetic walk.
All walks are fully risk assessed and delivered as part of the Walking For All programme.
After each walk, participants are invited to stay for a cup of tea or coffee and biscuits – offering a chance to socialise, make new friends and strengthen community connections.
Anyone interested in joining the Loughgall walks can contact volunteer Walk Leader Victoria Dodds on 07858 139997 or email v.dodds84@gmail.com to register or find out more.
Whether you’re looking to improve your health, enjoy the outdoors, meet new people or give something back to your community, Walking For All offers the perfect opportunity to take that first step.
For more information on the programme visit www.getactiveabc.com/walkingforall
