Going for a walk is something many of us take for granted. We enjoy being outside and exploring new places. We know where there are great walks locally and feel confident to explore new routes. Sometimes we may be blocked from our intended route by overgrown vegetation, a boggy path or a ‘no trespassers’ sign but this is the exception more than the rule. 

For some of us though, the experience can be very different. Whether its inaccessible paths or a lack of confidence and experience, there are a number of social and physical barriers that can make heading out into nature much more of a challenge.​​  

As Britain’s walking charity our ambition is to break down these barriers and ensure everyone, everywhere can enjoy all the benefits of walking in the outdoors. So we’ve put together six simple ways we can all chip in to support those with the least access and most barriers to the outdoors.   

 

1. Help make paths more accessible  

Research from Natural England, the government advisor for the natural environment, has found that over 20% of England’s population are currently unable to make full use of our path network because of mobility issues. That means approximately 11 million people are missing out on all the benefits of walking in the outdoors. What’s more, those with poor mobility, the elderly, people with push chairs and even dog walkers with less athletic pets can struggle on poorly designed paths. Bethany Handley, disability activist and Ramblers ambassador, brings this issue to life in a short video and explains how your support of the Ramblers helps make paths more accessible. 

 

2. Act as a sighted guide for a blind or visually impaired person 

For a blind or partially sighted person, walking in nature can be a rich and sensory experience. And the benefit is not only one way: from engaging more fully with your surroundings to describe them or paying closer attention to your other senses, guiding a blind or partially sighted walking companion can be hugely rewarding.  With the support of Amar Latif, president of the Ramblers and blind adventurer, here are our top tips on how to make the most of the experience.  
 

3. Be an ally to marginalised groups

Whether through extensive research studies or the personal experiences of individuals, there is plenty of evidence to show that people from Global Majority backgrounds can experience racism when out walking.  In this article, Jo Yuen shares their experiences and explains how you can be an ally to those who may not feel they belong in the countryside. 

 

4. Provide information on the accessibility of walking routes

If you’re leading walks for others, a few simple considerations when planning or mapping a walking route can make it much easier for others to know whether the walk will be accessible based on their individual needs. Make a note of whether the route involves things such as: 

• uneven and muddy surfaces 

• very narrow paths 

• stiles

• kissing gates

• other barriers such as streams

• toilets and other facilities

 

5. Make reasonable adjustments for people with different needs and abilities 

As Ramblers member Farkhanda says, “Walking with diverse groups enriches the experience, fostering friendships and cultural understanding. I advocate creating environments where everyone feels comfortable, encouraging walk leaders to consider various perspectives, including different faiths and abilities. A brief acknowledgment during the walk introduction, inviting participants to share any specific needs, can welcome and foster inclusivity.” Read more of Farkhanda’s thoughts on how easy it is to make walks feel more inclusive by considering different perspectives and beliefs. 
 

6. Create safe spaces for women  

Unlike many sports and physical activities, more women than men are regular leisure walkers. In fact, 55% of members of the Ramblers members are women.  However, women can feel a sense of fear when exercising alone, especially if it is dark or in remote locations.  Ramblers group walks can offer a sense of ‘safety in numbers’ and in Plymouth, the Ramblers are partnering with Livewell and OneYou Plymouth to offer a women-only walk as part of a supportive community which aims to reduce fear and boost confidence.    

 

Finally, we should not under-estimate the positive impact we can all have by being open and welcoming when we are out on walks.  A friendly nod, a helping hand and a supportive comment can make a huge difference.