Places for People becomes first housing association to partner with The Ramblers

The UK’s leading social enterprise Places for People (PfP) has become the first housing association to partner with Britain’s walking charity, The Ramblers. Over the next twelve months, PfP aim introduce over 60 new walks to help people become more physically active and improve mental health. These will start from either communities where PfP has homes or from Places Leisure centres. 

With over a third of the UK population failing to meet basic activity guidelines and subsequently placing more pressures on the NHS, zero to low-cost and easily accessible methods may provide part of the answer, including organised walking groups. These groups have seen an uplift in their members as they provide a simple and enjoyable way to increase physical activity. 

Groups which may have previously been viewed as more suited to retirees have seen an increase in uptake by younger generations, with a significant increase in popularity amongst 18-34s. With more people seeking real connections beyond social media and improving their mental health, research has found that 82% of people in this age group believe going for walks is good for their mental health. 

Alongside this, PfP’s annual customer survey found “social activities in my community” as well a “health walk” emerged as key asks of the social enterprise. Responding to this ask, PfP has established a brand-new partnership with The Ramblers to introduce a network of free friendly, volunteer-led Wellbeing Walks to help people and communities move more, meet others and feel better.  

Utilising their unique position, PfP will leverage the knowledge and reach of their leisure business, Places Leisure, to support the partnership. In Northumberland, Wellbeing Walks supported by Places Leisure are continuing to grow in popularity, with 22 weekly walks already established. 

Marcus Hulme, Director of Places Impact at Places for People, said: “With over 260,000 homes across the country and over 100 leisure centres, we see every day the importance of community and being active. Our annual customer survey showed us not only the positive impact physical activity and social connection can have on people but there was also a clear ask for more opportunities to participate in social activities within their communities. With funding support from Places Foundation, we are delighted to be the first housing association to partner with The Ramblers at this scale. This partnership will support us to provide more opportunities for people across the country to move more and build social connections. 

“Wellbeing Walks are for all abilities and members of the community, whether people are looking to get outdoors more with others, increase their step count or forge new social connections. We are eager to kickstart this project with The Ramblers who bring their vast expertise and network to help us support more people to become physically active.” 

The Ramblers currently have 148 Ramblers Wellbeing Walks groups across England and Wales delivering over 69,000 walks per year. 

Will Heckford, Programme Lead for Ramblers Wellbeing Walks said: “Our goal is to create walking opportunities for all, and so we’re excited to join forces with Places for People (PfP), to extend the benefits of walking to even more people.   

“By working in partnership, The Ramblers and PfP will train volunteers to lead Wellbeing Walks in their local community, helping people take their first step towards a healthier and happier lifestyle.  Wellbeing Walks are perfect for people dealing with health conditions, mobility issues or social isolation, whatever their fitness level.”   

To find out more about Wellbeing Walks visit The Rambler's website.