Who can become a Community Walk Leader?
Who is eligible to attend?
The scheme is specifically designed for community groups or other organisations who want to set up a walking group and run a programme of walks in their community
- Applicants must be 18 years of age or above
- Applicants should be regular walkers and have some knowledge of walks in their local walking area
- Commercial outdoor activity providers or businesses cannot participate in the training and can’t take people/groups out walking using this scheme
- Those who plan to charge a fee for taking participants on a walk are not allowed to attend
- Applicants must be nominated by the chairperson or other member of the committee of the organisation to be a Community Walk Leader
Who is eligible to attend free of charge?
As there is a limited budget, unfortunately not everyone can receive the Community Walk Leader (CWL) training free of charge. Training will be offered free of charge to volunteers and staff member in an established community group or organisation who want to set up a WIYC group and run a programme of walks in their community, subject to a successful application process. New groups may receive training free of charge at the discretion of Outdoor Recreation NI.
Your commitment
For all those who attend the Community Walk Leader Training free of charge, it is required in the application form that they commit to meeting the minimum expectations of being a Community Walk Leader:
- Set up a Walking In Your Community (WIYC) walking group and register the group on WalkingInYourCommunity.com
- Have an active walking programme each year:
- Register at least 10 people
- Run at least 5 walks per annum
- Minimum of 8 participants per walk (Depending on the ability of the group)
- Keep a copy of all signed Walker’s Registration Forms and send a copy to Outdoor Recreation NI. Keep a copy of all Walk Log forms
- Operate within the scope of the scheme outlined in the CWL training
- Follow the ‘Walking in Your Community’ code of practice outlined in the CWL training
- Actively lead walks within 2 years from your date of training. Failure to do so will cause your status of Community Walk Leader to be revoked.