Accompanied Walks for adults experiencing social isolation, bereavement or who have additional support needs
From April 2023 (Wednesdays and Fridays pre-arranged visits only)
A dose of ‘Vitamin green’
With over 200 people benefiting from Accompanied Walks so far, our community outreach project is now firmly embedded as part of the Museum’s wellbeing offer.
Accompanied Walks 2023 kicks off this coming April, running on Wednesdays and Fridays until October. The project provides an opportunity for members of the community who have little or no opportunity, or need some encouragement and support, to venture outdoors or interact with other people. If you think this describes you or someone you know (even just a little bit!), please read on…
By spending an hour or so in the beautiful surroundings of the Museum, in the company of a friendly and knowledgeable volunteer, learning about our unique collection of heritage buildings and rare breed farm animals, Accompanied Walkers benefit from:
• A dose of ‘Vitamin green’ from being outdoors in a rural setting.
• The security of being in a supervised setting (as opposed to a public park) with toilets.
• A social interaction.
• The knock-on wellbeing benefits associated with the above, such as an increase in confidence, a greater ability to manage existing health conditions, and a diversion from negative thoughts.
• And most likely, pure enjoyment!
“This is a wonderful cause and a help certainly for me. It is a really good idea.” Accompanied Walker
Please note that Accompanied Walkers have the option of bringing a relative, friend or carer (and a dog if they have one!) along for moral support – they too are likely to benefit from the experience. Please note, all visitors with high support needs must be joined by a carer/companion.
Refreshments will be provided and some help with transport can be arranged. Mobility aides including a golf-buggy are available on site to assist those with limited mobility. This is all free of charge for a limited number of visitors.
If you or anyone you know is interested in an Accompanied Walk, please register by filling out the form below. Our walks are now fully booked for 2023 but please fill out the registration form if you are interested in our 2024 walks.
Self-Registration FormSocial Prescribers and others working in the care profession are welcome to contact Jacqui on outreach@coam.org.uk or on 01494 871 117 to arrange a visit to the Museum with a view to referring patients to Accompanied Walks. Social Prescribers can also use the form below to refer a patient.
Referrer Registration FormThe success of Accompanied Walks would not be possible without support from the Sherling Charitable Trust and the compassion and commitment of the COAM Accompanied Walks volunteers.
You MUST contact outreach@coam.org.uk to book your Accompanied Walk.
