Join Our BeWell Team as a Volunteer Walk Leader Are you passionate about the outdoors and enjoy connecting with others? We’re looking for enthusiastic Volunteer Walk Leaders to guide local walking groups in Exeter, Paignton, and Torquay. As a Walk Leader, you’ll have the chance to: Share your love for walking with others. Help people stay active, healthy, and engaged in their communities. Explore beautiful local areas while meeting new friends. No previous experience is necessary—just a friendly attitude and a passion for helping others. We’ll provide training and ongoing support to ensure you feel confident leading walks. If you’re ready to make a difference and bring people together through the joy of walking, we’d love to hear from you You can find out more about the role below and can c lick here to register your interest. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to us at [email protected]. Volunteer Walk Leader Mission To support people to build a pathway to independence, live a fulfilling life and reach their own potential through a range of specialist mental health and wellbeing services. Aims To enable the walking groups to run consistently, successfully and safely. Times This will vary depending on which walk being led. Generally, a couple of Hours on the same day every week. Responsible to: Volunteer Coordinator and Community Lead Role Overview: As a Volunteer Walk Leader at Step One Charity you will lead one or more of our wellbeing walks for individuals experiencing mental health concerns. Your role will be crucial in helping participants improve their physical and mental well-being through accessible and supportive outdoor activity. You will provide a safe and welcoming environment, ensuring that each walk is enjoyable and beneficial for all participants. Key Responsibilities: Meet members of the group and take a register of those attending. Organise and lead wellbeing walks, ensuring participants feel comfortable, supported, and safe throughout the activity. Follow the wellbeing walk risk assessment and ensure all safety protocols are adhered to, including assessing weather conditions and participants' needs. Provide support, encouragement and motivation, being mindful of the mental and physical health needs of participants. Maintain open and clear communication with participants, including providing necessary instructions before and during the walk. Work closely with other volunteers and staff members to ensure the smooth running of the walking program. Collect and share feedback from participants to help improve the quality of walks and the overall wellbeing program. Ensure the walk is accessible for all participants, adapting routes as needed to accommodate varying fitness levels. Report any issues including any safeguarding concerns to the Volunteer Coordinator promptly to ensure appropriate action can be taken. Person Specification Essential Criteria Good Communication Skills: Able to engage with a diverse group of individuals and provide clear instructions. Empathy and Understanding: Demonstrates sensitivity and a supportive approach to individuals experiencing mental health challenges. Reliability and Punctuality: Committed to leading scheduled walks consistently and on time. Teamwork: Willing to work collaboratively with other volunteers and staff. Basic Fitness Level: Physically able to lead and participate in walks of varying lengths. First Aid Certification: Basic first aid knowledge or willingness to complete training. Walk Leader Certification: Either have or be willing to complete the Ramblers Walk Leader training. Desirable Criteria Knowledge of Mental Health Issues: Awareness of common mental health challenges and how physical activity can support well-being. Local Area Knowledge: Familiarity with local walking routes and points of interest. Additional Requirements Able to provide 2 personal references Commitment to attend an induction and any relevant training sessions. Willingness to adhere to the charity’s policies, including safeguarding and health and safety procedures and the Wellbeing Walk Risk Assessment. Subject to successful completion of a DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check. Volunteers must be 18 years or older Equipment Required Volunteers will need to have a mobile phone for emergencies and carry the relevant numbers to call for help. Volunteers will also need to supply their own waterproof coat and some sturdy shoes suitable for walking in. Step One have the right to close this advert before the posted closing date if necessary.