People with impairments and disabilities are finding a sense of belonging and wellbeing with a walking group where the emphasis is on accessibility and safety for everyone
The ‘sensory walks’ are led by Your Trust Rochdale, a charity dedicated to inspiring people to live more active and healthy lifestyles.
Those who come along are encouraged to use their senses to take in and interact with their surroundings – from the vibrant colours of spring flowers to the sound of water cascading from a fountain.
Each walk is typically between two and three miles, with locations including Queens Park, in Heywood and Hollingworth Lake, in Littleborough.
The support of Transport for Greater Manchester’s Wheels and Walks programme has enabled Your Trust Rochdale to put on regular walks, which are growing in popularity.
Fathema Ali, Inclusion Officer at Your Trust Rochdale, who leads the walks, says she is planning to hold two walks a month now the warmer weather is upon us.
She said: “Now, we can have regular walks, which the service users are looking forward to and enjoying. It’s not just about the physical benefits, there is also the social aspect.
“At the end of the walks there’s a little get-together where we have a chat, make friendships and build relationships. And they all have made such friendships that they’re actually going for walks as well in groups themselves.”
After a recent walk at Queens Park, people spoke about the difference walks make for people with disabilities, their carers and support workers.
Carole Evans cares for Kayliegh Heath, who regularly attends the walks. And she’s seen her become more confident in social situations as a result.
She says the walks are good for disabled people, including those with learning disabilities.
“I think it just gives them a chance to mix with each other,” she said. “You can see the difference in them once they start walking round and they start talking with one another.”
Paula Poulton says it’s been a similar story for her daughter, Kelsey Kershaw. She said: “I think she enjoys mixing with everyone, making new friends. Because since she left college, she didn’t have anyone at all, and trying to find these groups was quite difficult. So, when someone introduced us, that’s it, we’ve not stopped now.”
Lesley James, a support worker at MENCAP, said the walks had given John Dingivan, a real sense of belonging – as well as boosting the physical and mental health of all involved.
She said: “It’s good for John and the support workers and the carers because we all get together and chat amongst ourselves – the people we support and the carers – so it’s just a good atmosphere.”
