The Killin Group from the Walk in the Park network were named the Health Walk Group of the Year at our Volunteer Awards 2023.
We celebrated the positive impact the group has had within the Killin community at our annual award ceremony.
Around 25 participants join eight volunteer Walk Leaders for the free weekly sessions, which have been praised by partakers for connecting communities, improving energy levels, and boosting confidence to be active.
A recent member survey of the Walk in the Park groups found that 88% of people saw an improvement in their social wellbeing, while around three quarters of walkers saw improvements in the physical and mental health after joining the weekly walks.
Fiona McGregor, Senior Health Walk Coordinator for Walk in the Park, said: “We are thrilled our volunteers have been recognised for their work in Killin, they truly are an asset to the community.
“The Killin Group are always looking for new ways to engage with locals and go above and beyond to ensure the walks are accessible for all. This is why they introduced the evening walks this year; they’re already proving to be a huge success.
Not only do the Health Walk leaders offer a vital service, but they also share knowledge of the local area as well as the physical and mental benefits of being active.
Founded in 2012, The Killin Group hold weekly Health Walks in the morning throughout the year and in the evenings fortnightly during the summer months, as well as Strength and Balance sessions that offer exercises to reinforce muscles and improve balance. The group also offer Dementia Friendly sessions, as well as ending walks in local cafes to offer a more social element.
The Killin Group is one of six Health Walk teams under Walk in the Park, the flagship project of Loch Lomond & The Trossachs Countryside Trust.
Walk in the Park supports more than 280 people across the National Park and offers Strength and Balance sessions in four communities, as well as ‘In Step with Nature’ challenges, annual events and volunteer training.
Walk in the Park’s Killin group were commended at Paths for All’s 14th annual awards ceremony at the Scottish Parliament on 27 September.
View our full list of winners from our 2023 Volunteer Awards here.