MSP highlights Moray Health Walks benefits

ENJOYING the benefits of the many health walks in Moray was top of the agenda for the region's MSP.

Richard Lochhead MSP recently joined the Dementia Friendly Health Walk at Fochabers and is encouraging people to take part in other across Moray.

The Fochabers Health Walk is part of the Walk Moray Programme which is a member of the Scottish Health Walk Network, the Scottish walking charity Paths for All’s accreditation scheme for safe, accessible, volunteer-led walks.

Mr Lochhead said: “It was great to join the Walk Moray group in Fochabers for their weekly health walk.

"I thoroughly enjoyed meeting the volunteers and local walkers, and it was good to hear how taking part in the programme has really boosted their mental and physical health.

“As well as the health benefits of these organised walks there’s also the bonus of being able to exercise in good company and after the last eighteen months, socialising is something we all value more than ever.

“We’re so lucky that here in Moray we have some of the most spectacular places to walk and I would encourage anyone looking for a way to become more active to think about joining one of the local health walks.”

Helen Morrison, Senior Development Officer at Paths for All, added: “The Walk Moray project leads 20 weekly Health Walks across the region, three of which have received our Dementia Friendly accreditation meaning these walks are safe and supportive for people living with dementia.

"We’re so pleased to provide funding to this project, managed by Health and Social Care Moray, to support their network of fantastic volunteers to lead the friendly walks for the community.

“If you haven’t been active in a while and are looking for some support to get moving, or you’ve missed connecting with people and are looking for some company, Health Walks are a great place to start. You’ll be sure to receive a warm welcome from the Walk Leaders!”

For more information about Walk Moray Health Walks here https://www.pathsforall.org.uk/walk-project/walk-moray

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