Walking regularly will make you feel good, and is good for your health. For adults, 30 minutes of walking five days a week dramatically cuts the risk of developing heart disease, diabetes, obesity and some cancers. It also reduces cholesterol, lowers high blood pressure and is good for your sense of well-being.
It’s now easier than ever for you to ride with young children:
- Good foot support makes the journey much more comfortable for children, and good padding protects young bottoms from bumps
- Straps and padded headrests are essential because children will sometimes fall asleep on a ride
- Look for seats that can grow with your child and are compatible with panniers.
Activities: Volunteering Opportunities
The Health Champion scheme offers the opportunity for volunteers to work with NHS projects that support the health of Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly communities.
Volunteers can become involved by signing up as a Health Champion. This involves a CRB (Criminal Records Bureau) check, health questionnaire and references. But you could soon be part of the team. Opportunities range from general admin to assisting in the delivery of sessions.
Throughout your involvement with projects you will be supported by a professional. We will encourage Health Champions with training to enhance and support your volunteering and personal development. Basic expenses, such as travel coasts will be covered.
To become a volunteer with the Health Champions scheme contact the co-ordinator:
- Zelga Hatton 01209 313419
- Email: Zelga.Hatton@ciospct.cornwall.nhs.uk
Malcolm - a Mobilise Health Champion
Malcolm has been a Mobilise walk leader for 2 years now, and is a valued member of the team.
Here is a little insight into his volunteering experience.
Tell me a little about how you got into volunteering?
I got into volunteering through Volunteer Cornwall as a volunteer driver. I was volunteering for about 2 years, but the trouble was it was rather time consuming.
I like the outdoors and it has a dual purpose: I can walk the dog while improving my own health.
I saw an advert in the West Briton for a organised walk in Truro, attended and 6 months later I was asked if I would like to become a walk leader. So I did the course in Bodmin, Sept 2007.
What were your expectations of volunteering?
Being able to help other people in improving their health. Also it’s like a social event and we all enjoy the coffee breaks for a chat! Being able to take my dog, Fleet along too.
Were your expectations met?
Yes!
What aspects of volunteering do you find the most rewarding?
When you're leading a walk its rewarding when people turn up to walk with you and then return again the following week.
Are there any challenges you have found through volunteering?
Weather! When it’s bad, you have to judge if this means you have to cancel the walk or if people are going to turn up anyway and want to continue as usual.
What does the future hold?
Who can tell!! Hopefully continued good health and contentment.
