Health walk programmes

We devised and led a 10-week ‘walking on referral’ programme in conjunction with St Stephen’s Health Centre in Bow. GPs at the practice referred patients with a range of health conditions – including diabetes, back problems, stroke histories and mental health issues – who they felt would benefit from additional exercise.

Each week, we led a circular walk of 2-3 miles from the health centre. And to encourage group members to explore the routes in their own time, we produced a series of ten booklets with maps, directions, photographs, and healthy lifestyle tips. Step counters and other walking goodies were provided, and the local health trainers promoted other health projects with the group as we walked.

By the end of the programme, all of the walkers reported a weight reduction and improved blood pressure.

“Since my stroke, I sometimes find it hard to get out of the house. It’s good to get out on your walks.” St Stephen’s health walk member

Following on from the St Stephen’s programme, we currently manage and support all of the health walk groups across Tower Hamlets.

If you’d like to set up health walks for your surgery, health centre or community group, then please get in touch.

Click to download one of the sample walk leaflets:

Other Walk Programmes