Walking for health

The fight against heart disease and health problems in Bromsgrove District has received a boost as GPs can now refer patients to Bromsgrove Walks for Health.

The Bromsgrove Walks for Health scheme, which is coordinated by Bromsgrove District Council, has received the ‘Walking for Health’ accreditation from Natural England in recognition of its work to bring in beginners, monitor the progress of walkers and meet safety and insurance standards.

As an accredited scheme the scheme and its users will now benefit from formal recognition by health professionals, partner organisations and funders as part of a nationally evaluated scheme, as well as receiving free training.

Bromsgrove District Council Community Walks Co-ordinator Richard Potter said: “The success of the scheme so far is down to the volunteer Walk Leaders, whose training and commitment is having a direct benefit to all who take part in our community walks.”

Strategic Health Advisor for Natural England William Bird said: “The new accreditation scheme has been essential in ensuring high standards across the Walk for Health network and providing frontline health professionals with added confidence when referring their patients on.”

Bromsgrove Walks for Health welcomes new walkers throughout the year. If you would like to start walking or train as a Walking for Health volunteer Walk Leader please contact Richard Potter on 01527 881362 or by email on r.potter@bromsgrove.gov.uk.