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Bob and Lucy Lloyd volunteer with ������ϲ�����ͼ�� Health Walks and run two walks a week in Worcester.

When they retired in 2016, they were keen to find things to occupy their time and looked at various options, one of which was volunteering.

Initially, they joined the ������ϲ�����ͼ�� Health Walks group from The Commandery and later went on to join The Hive Walkers from the library in Worcester City, which they are still a key part of today.

Bob and Lucy completed their training and have been Walk Leaders since April 2017. Since then, they have not looked back.

They said: “We run a lovely, ever expanding, group of walkers, or who they now call friends who walk, split into two groups, both for an hour, but one for those who want an easier walk.  At the end of the walks, we return to the city centre for coffee, and maybe cake too! This results in even more socialising and making friends.

We have found it is very rewarding especially when you see people who attend on their own and soon make good friends, as have we.  For some they describe it as the highlight of their week. We feel the social and mental benefits are just as important as those of walking, if not more.”

They added: “It can be challenging at times and is a commitment. However, when we need a break we have a group of walk leaders we can turn to, to cover our walk.  We firmly believe in the benefits of Health Walks, no cost, no planning, no need to book, just turn up and enjoy the company of likeminded people.”

Councillor David Ross, Cabinet Member for Responsibility for Health and Well-being, said: “Bob and Lucy’s Health Walk journey is a really positive one, and I’m really pleased to see how much they have benefitted both physically and mentally from being Health Walk leaders. The walks are a great way for people to increase their steps and the amount they are walking. There is no rush during the walk either; walkers are encouraged to walk at their own pace so they are confident and able to enjoy the walk. Walking at any speed can be beneficial and can improve health conditions as well as increasing levels of activity.” 

Everyone is welcome to join a Health Walk. They are free and all the walks are planned over easy terrain so anyone can join in. They range from 20 minutes to 90 minutes and most are accessible by foot or local public transport.  

As well as improving physical wellbeing, walking can also help with mental wellbeing by providing an opportunity to socialise with other walkers. 

To find out more about ������ϲ�����ͼ�� Health Walks and information about becoming a leader go to our Health Walks page.