Charity launches monthly walks to tackle loneliness
Dogs are welcome as well
A charity in Swindon is looking to tackle loneliness through joint walks.
The ‘Well-being Walk & Chat’ will be taking place once a month and are aimed at bereaved people or those struggling mentally - but are open and accessible for anyone.
The walks will take place in Old Town and end at a local café where participants can continue to talk to each other.
Sharon Robinson, church leader at the Swindon Citadel Salvation Army, said: “In today’s world, loneliness can be overwhelming, and we know that something as simple as a walk and a chat can make a world of difference.
“Also, there are many people suffering from poor mental health; people who are lonely and need friendship.
“This isn’t about a strenuous hike; it’s about creating a safe, welcoming space where people can find companionship, enjoy the fresh air, and know that they are not alone.
“We believe that building community one step at a time can help lighten loads and share joys.”
The Wellbeing Walks are set to take place every first Thursday of the month from October onwards, with the first event already having taken place on 11 September.
Participants will meet at the Salvation Army Hall on Devizes Road at 10.30am before they set off on their walk around a local park.
The project aims at getting people to socialise in a regular, low-pressure setting while also getting in some gentle outdoor exercise.
“There have been people that have walked into our church on one Sunday and said ‘I just want to make new friends’”, added Ms Robinson.
“If they've been with a partner for years and suddenly that partner is no longer there and they're on their own, there's an incredible loneliness about that.
“So, if we can help to alleviate that and bring a little bit of joy into somebody's life through walking with them and talking with them, they know they've got a point where they can go to each month and come along to something and they've got something to look forward to.”