The walking groups are one of a number of activities provided by the Bedfordshire Child and Adolescent Service to support young people in socialising, connecting with others and taking part in exercise, who ordinarily might find this hard to do.
The provision of healthy snacks has been an opportunity for some of the young walkers to try fruits that they haven't had before, stay hydrated when walking on hot days, and on cold days, hot drinks have provided welcome warmth.
Clinical Support Worker, Deborah Jones, who leads the walking group said, "These items for both groups have been a very welcome addition for the young people attending. They have helped immensely. Some young people will not eat or drink in front of others but with support, some have achieved this within a safe and supportive environment of the walking group. Walking has been a distraction and is a natural way to chat and be with others."
Feedback from the young people has been heartening:
“I like the options of biscuits and fruit and some of the fruits are ones I have never tried”
“I wouldn’t have got to where I am today if it hadn’t had been for this group”.
“I was very anxious when I joined but with consistency and great facilitators, I built my confidence”
"I am now going to college and I have managed to present a 5-minute presentation. I know this is a safe environment for me to complete some physical exercise and it’s great to see everyone”.
"I have never played badminton before, It was great to be encouraged and not be judge for mistakes made, it was a nice safe environment to learn and have a go"
The groups are facilitated by Clinical Support Worker, Debbie Jones, with Support Worker colleagues Mihaela Iancu and Emma Smith - Support Workers, CAMHS