Volunteer Walk Leader

We’re looking for a volunteer to take on the role of Walk Leader for our new pilot project in Midhurst run in partnership with the Hyde Foundation

The Later Living Men Get Active pilot will support men living in Hyde Later Living schemes in the Midhurst area. Male residents local to Midhurst aged 18+ also welcome to join.

The project is aimed at men who may be experiencing loneliness, low confidence, or mental health challenges.

Many residents face isolation, financial insecurity, and barriers to engaging with community activities. Through this pilot, we’ll provide accessible, walking-based wellbeing sessions designed to improve mental wellbeing, build social connection, and create a sense of routine through locally delivered group walks.

Whilst the project is scheduled for 6 weeks, we hope to continue the walk after the pilot has concluded subject to participant take up.

We’re looking for someone who is approachable, reliable, and passionate about supporting others in their community.

They don’t need to be a professional; just someone who can help create a welcoming and supportive environment.

MenWalkTalk will provide full guidance, onboarding, and ongoing support to ensure you feel confident in the role.

The volunteer Walk Leader role is primarily to lead and guide participants during weekly walks and create a welcoming and supportive environment where men can discuss their mental health and engage in meaningful conversations.

This position is ideal for someone who is passionate about mental health, enjoys the outdoors, and has strong interpersonal skills.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead Walking Groups: Organise and lead regular walking sessions in the Midhurst area, ensuring the safety and well-being of all participants.
• Facilitate Conversations: Encourage open dialogue among participants, promoting a supportive environment where men feel comfortable discussing mental health issues.
• Provide Support: Offer a listening ear and guidance to participants who may be experiencing mental health challenges, directing them to additional resources if needed.
• Ensure Safety: Conduct pre-walk briefings to discuss the route, expected duration, and any potential hazards, and ensure all participants are accounted for during and after the walk.
• Logistics and Planning: Coordinate meeting points, plan walk routes and manage the overall logistics of the walk to ensure a smooth experience for all involved.
• Promote Inclusivity: Ensure that all participants, regardless of background or fitness level, feel welcome and included in the group.
• Data Collection: Assist with programme data collection, including Participant wellbeing before and after the programme; Participation and attendance levels; Resident feedback and qualitative impact.
• Community Networking: A key part of raising awareness of the walk will be through community networking; Telling friends, family, co-workers and contacting local organisations; putting up posters and flyers in your local area will let people know of our offer.

What skills do I need?

1. Communication Skills: Strong verbal communication skills and the ability to engage with a diverse group of participants.
2. Empathy and Understanding: A compassionate approach to mental health, with a non-judgmental and supportive attitude.
3. Leadership: Ability to confidently lead a group, ensuring everyone feels safe and included.
4. Reliability: Punctuality and commitment to leading walks as scheduled.
5. Physical Fitness: Moderate level of physical fitness to comfortably complete walks of varying lengths.

Location

This opportunity is available Countywide.