Get Out Get Active creates walking opportunities with Walk Derbyshire 

Our partners Amber Valley Council have teamed up with Walk Derbyshire to bring disabled and non-disabled people together in a fun walking programme. 

Get Out Get Active (GOGA) came on board to not only identify and support walk leaders, but also reach participants who are struggling with social isolation. 

Together the GOGA team and Amber Valley Council launched the Amber Valley Walking Together programme, which works with individuals, groups and organisations to set up and manage local walks. These walks aimed to boost physical and mental health for disabled and non-disabled people, and people with long-term health conditions.  

We wanted to make sure that these walking groups focused on our core principles like locality and inclusion. It was important for GOGA and Amber Valley Council to offer walking routes that could be easily accessed by public transport, with plenty of parking opportunities too. 

This tailored approach has helped participants socialise and build confidence at their own pace. People from all backgrounds, including those from less active communities, have been able to challenge themselves in a friendly, supportive environment.  

As the programme became more popular, we made sure that new walkers could get in touch with a walk coordinator to get as much information as possible on the sessions. When they attended their first walk, they were introduced to the group, and supported as they get to know new people. 

With help from Walk Derbyshire, participants are now finding the confidence to carry out other physical activities independently, and have noticed improvements in their physical and mental health.  

One of our walkers is in his 80s now, and he came to us because he'd had a heart operation. He was quite hesitant, and would only go for short distances, but very quickly, within the space of two or three months, he built up his stamina, and built up his confidence again.

Chris, Walk Leader at the Duffield Walking Group 

 This successful programme is now entering a new phase. In the last six months, we’ve trained and upskilled 72 new walk leaders, which has boosted walking opportunities in the local area. 

All of this is strengthening community spirit in Amber Valley as people from all backgrounds come together in physical activity. 

This story is part of our campaign, #TheGOGAWay. Showing how the GOGA approach can help organisations do things differently across the UK.  

About Get Out Get Active 

Get Out Get Active (GOGA) is a programme that supports disabled and non-disabled people to enjoy being active together. Activity Alliance is the creator and lead partner. The programme is funded by Spirit of 2012, Sport England and London Marathon Foundation.  

Find out more about Get Out Get Active here.