With the weather turning cooler and days becoming shorter, the Community Engagement team reflect on a busy summer. Despite some very hot days, the team have been leading walks and introducing more local communities to the beautiful South West Coast Path to groups that might not normally have the opportunity to get out, as well as those who draw benefit from the positive health and wellbeing impacts of walking the Path.
Walking along the South West Coast Path is a simple, powerful way to support mental health. Our group walks help people stay active, connect with others, and enjoy the calming benefits of nature. From coastal views to shared conversations, participants often feel less stressed, more relaxed, and uplifted. Supporting key actions identified by the Mental Health Foundation, these walks show how fresh air, movement, and community can make a lasting difference to wellbeing.
On World Health Day, we explore how the South West Coast Path supports health and wellbeing. From research showing its potential benefits for the NHS to the inspiring story of a fatigue management walking group in Torbay, this blog highlights how gentle coastal walks can build community, resilience and hope.
There’s a saying that there’s no such thing as bad weather, only unsuitable clothing. While that may be partly true, leading community walks in poor weather requires far more than a good waterproof. As we’ve seen this year, unsettled weather has meant staying flexible and keeping a hopeful eye on the forecast.
In this Q & A, Mike Radford, Vocational Development Officer at St Petrocs (Cornwall-based homeless charity) reflects on the value of the partnership between St Petrocs and the South West Coast Path Association, and the positive impact of the Coast Path Connectors project. Together we have delivered around 30 walks that support wellbeing, build connections and open up inspiring experiences for residents, staff and partners along the South West Coast Path.
Do your New Year resolutions include tackling the South West Coast Path this year? To help you get started, whether it’s to walk a few steps or the full 630 miles, Coast Path Connectors’ volunteer Jane Leigh explains how she set out on the Path, and what keeps her walking.
