Volunteer as a walk leader

Without our volunteer walk leaders, the Heart and Sole programme would not be possible.

The main skill we need from our volunteer walk leaders is an enthusiasm for walking and its benefits. 

You don't need any particular experience, but we love our leaders to:

• be friendly and welcoming
• have good communication skills
• be reliable, punctual and well organised
• be confident at speaking in front of small groups
• be able to take control 
• be assertive when needed 
• be observant and sensitive to the needs of others 

What's my role as a walk leader?

Our trained walk leaders act as either a front leader, a middle marker or back marker during the walks. They make sure that everyone is on route, and comfortable with the pace.

As a walk leader, you will need to:

• attend any walk prior to training so we can meet you to find out about you and you can find out about the scheme
• complete online and face to face training
• shadow a lead walker during a walk
• complete and return the paperwork for the walks you are involved with
• encourage and motivate walkers to attend regularly
• adhere to the health and safety guidelines and safeguarding measures
• attend quarterly walk leader meetings online or at a local venue

How do I become a walk leader?

If you are interested in volunteering as a walk leader, you can email chelmsford.walkleaders@gmail.com

You will need to complete all training before you can lead one of our walks.

Essential information

• You can volunteer weekly, monthly, or more frequently if you want to. However, we will ask you to commit to a 13 week rota once you are trained.
• All walks are no longer than 90 minutes. 
• You will need to arrive 15 minutes before the start of the walk to register walkers. 
• You will also need to be available at the end of the walk to answer questions and encourage socialising.
• You will receive support as a walk leader, but we do not cover any expenses.