We love the power of social media!! A couple of months ago we shared a post about some of our team taking clients out on a walk to introduce them to their new local area to give them the confidence to explore more, enabling them to get outdoors for future exercise and well-being boosts. Following this post we were contacted by the South West Coast Path Association and were informed of a newly launched project called the ‘Coast Path Connectors’. The project is aimed at improving equity of access along the South West Coast Path by supporting local people in making the most of the amazing South West Coast Path, for their health and well-being, through a network of volunteers.

To help support the Coast Path Connectors, and to the benefit of the St Petrocs clients, three of our staff members are currently training to become Volunteer Community Rangers. Once fully trained they will be able to engage and lead on coast path walks, enabling more people to access the health and wellbeing benefits of walking, building confidence and exploring the Coast Path. There will also be additional elements to engage with on these walks to further add to the experience. These elements may include photography, sketching, bird watching, foraging and much more. 

Last week, the Vocational Development Programme ventured out on their first Coast Path Connector led walk with the support of South West Coast Path Leader, Jack Greaves. Clients and staff met at the Helston Boating Lake and followed a pre-planned route all the way to Porthleven covering just over 5 miles.  Along the way the team enjoyed the scenery, which was quite misty at times! And learnt about the edible plants in our hedgerows, and most importantly offered support to each other along the route.  Both clients and staff felt a real sense of achievement and thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity. 

Everyone is looking forward to the next walk and we can’t wait to see how this relationship continues to grow.