Instep
Step 1 - Walking Back to Happiness
Christine Johnson had worked for many years and really enjoyed the people part of her job. When she retired her life changed dramatically.
“There is life after work…..
Retirement came as a bit of a shock, suddenly I went from meeting and greeting hundreds of people a week to no social contact at all.
I decided to join a local walking group called InStep; with a little trepidation and feeling very unsure of myself I went along to my first walk not knowing what to expect, I was treated with friendship and warmth and I have been encouraged to gain confidence within the group. I am now a member of a social team I am proud to be part of.
I have some health issues I have to consider when I join in activities, but I have been given all the care and encouragement I need to make me feel confident. I cannot praise the organisers enough for such a rewarding, healthy and inexpensive hobby”.
Step 2 - You’ll Never Walk Alone
InStep – is a programme of short local walks led by trained volunteers and is a fun way to improve health and meet new friends.
“We have been an independent group for 2 years now and are managed by a team of volunteers who believe that a good walk increases people’s quality of life.
We started off with funding from the British Heart Foundation but that funding ended and as we had over 80 people walking with us each week we wanted to carry on. We have over 250 members and on average between 19 and 28 people come along to our walks held 3 times a week in 23 different locations in the Mansfield area.
Through receiving the funding from Nottinghamshire Community Foundation, we have had the confidence to apply to different funders and attract even more money.
Instep helps our members to take control of their own health by committing to exercise on a regular basis. Our group seems to have a secure future as many of our volunteer leaders are recruited from our walkers. This gives them confidence and new skills, in particular how to lead walks and training in First Aid.
We want our group to benefit as many people as possible so our walks are free. Our numbers are growing, friendships being made, group walking holidays arranged as fitness levels improve. It’s great!”
Step 3 - The Walk of Life
The most deprived areas in the county of Nottinghamshire are in Mansfield, however InStep have found a way to use one of the districts greatest assets to the benefit of the whole community – the open countryside and forest areas that surround the town which are perfect for walks in the fresh air all year round.
The free guided walks offered by InStep offer a welcome break from the pressures of every day life, both social and financial. The walkers feel the safety of numbers when walking in remote areas and genuine friendships are formed which decreases the feeling of isolation and hopelessness.
Nottinghamshire Community Foundation is helping groups to find their way to success.