Our walks are designed to be friendly, accessible, and enjoyable for everyone.

Before you join a walk

• Register as a new walker by completing a New Walker Form
• Each walk has been graded by the type of terrain covered and how long the walk will last. Choose the right walk for you by checking the 'grade' of the walk.
• View our Walk timetables to find a suitable walk in your area.
• Walk leaders are easy to spot in their yellow jackets. We welcome people living with long-term health conditions, including dementia.
• Children and families are always welcome. Under 18s must be accompanied by a responsible adult.
• Dogs are sometimes welcome, at the Walk Leader's discretion. Attend the walk on your own in the first instance to check. Walkers taking dogs on our walks must keep them on a short lead at all times and walk to the rear of the group.

Health and safety

• If you have any health conditions or injuries, please seek medical advice before taking part.
• Let your walk leader know about anything that may affect your walk, such as mobility needs, fatigue, or memory difficulties. Walkers take part at their own risk.
• If you usually receive day to day support, please bring someone who can accompany you and provide the level of support you normally require.
• Leaders will follow all safety procedures, but they cannot provide individual care or one to one supervision for individuals who require personal support.
• Carers, friends, and family members remain responsible for the person they are supporting during a Health Walk. If you are accompanying someone, be sure that you choose a walk that you can both do comfortably.
• All our walks are inclusive and welcoming to all. We encourage everyone to be courteous and tolerant. Please familiarise yourself with our Code of Conduct (PDF 120kb) and what is expected.
• Walkers take part at their own risk, and routes may be adapted or cancelled in adverse weather for safety.

Getting there

• If travelling by bus, you can find local timetables on the Intalink and Herts Lynx.
• Arriving 15 minutes early for your first walk can help if unfamiliar places feel overwhelming.

When you arrive

• Volunteers will add walker names to a register, and, if it’s your first walk, they can help you complete a New Walker Form if you haven’t already completed one on-line
• They will greet the group, explain the route, and highlight any features such as inclines, uneven ground, or rest points.
• All walks are risk assessed and led by trained leaders, many of whom are first aid qualified.

On the day of your walk (during the walk)

• Dress for the weather and wear sturdy, outdoor shoes.
• Smoking and vaping is not permitted on any walk.
• Walks vary in intensity, but many are taken at a relaxed, sociable pace with opportunities to pause and regroup.
• Many routes include rest points, though not all have seating; leaders will let you know in advance.
• Volunteers use clear, friendly communication and check in regularly with walkers who may need reassurance or orientation.
• If you need to slow down, stop, or would like support, let a volunteer in a yellow jacket know.
• Companions supporting someone with dementia should stay close enough to offer reassurance, guidance, or assistance whenever needed.
• Walks might be altered or cancelled without prior notice in bad weather or hazardous conditions. Do not attend if the Met Office has issued an extreme weather warning.

Staying together

• There is a volunteer at the front and one at the back to ensure the group stays connected so no one feels unsure of the route.
• If a walker becomes disoriented or anxious, volunteers will offer calm support and involve their companion if present.
• Carers and companions play an essential role in supporting the person they are accompanying throughout the walk.

Emergency information

• Please store an emergency contact on your phone or ask a leader for an “In Case of Emergency” card.
• Some volunteers will carry basic first aid supplies and follow established procedures if help is needed.

Helpful tips for people living with dementia

• Bring water, suitable clothing, and any mobility aids you normally use.
• Consider carrying a small card with your name and emergency contact details.
• If you prefer routine or familiarity, joining the same walk regularly can help build confidence.

Helpful tips for carers, friends, and companions

• Stay close enough to offer reassurance or orientation if needed.
• Let leaders know discreetly if there are particular preferences, triggers, or communication styles that help.
• Encourage the person you’re supporting to set the pace. But be sure that it is a walk you are able to do yourself.
• Remember that you are responsible for the safety and wellbeing of the person you are accompanying.

Compliance with recommended guidance

All guidance provided is in line with recommendations from the Ramblers Association and other recognised organisations such as the Alzheimer’s Society, Dementia UK, NHS Better Health / Walking for Health and Sport England/Active Partnerships that support safe, inclusive walking. This information has been developed in line with national best practice on safety, accessibility, communication, and support for people living with dementia and their companions.