Paths for All is hoping the voluntary sector can lead the way in helping workplaces become more active
The voluntary sector can lead the way in promoting a healthy lifestyle at work.
Paths for All champions everyday walking to help create a happier, healthier Scotland.
The charity is leading a series of activities at The Gathering which aim to encourage staff from the sector to embrace the benefits of walking.
“A lot of our work focuses on supporting workplaces,” said Frances Bain, walking for health manager at Paths for All.
“At work, there is a tendency to be sat at your desk all day. People get into the habit of working long days, especially in the third sector. I think staff are often more concerned about the people they are trying to help, but it is also important to think about your own health too. We are aiming to support organisations to help their staff look after themselves and think about their wellbeing.”
At The Gathering, Paths for All hosts its popular step count challenge – where attendees count their steps over the event and aim to register the highest distances over the two days.
The organisation is also hosting a stand at The Gathering, and this year is inviting delegates to join two short lunchtime walks along the Clydeside. The walks take place at 1.30pm today (Wed 19 Feb) and 1pm tomorrow (Thu 20 Feb).
Bain said: “The recommended guidelines are a minimum of 30 minutes walking a day, or 150 minutes a week. Even if this is achieved through lots of short walks, it still brings the benefits.
“This is great, because it encourages people to get more active in a way that suits their daily lives.
“A short walk just brings so many benefits for people, no matter how their health is.
“It is a great way of connecting with people, and is often more beneficial than just sitting and talking with someone.”
Paths for All hosts a number of campaigns and events throughout the year which aim to get Scotland walking, including community health walks across the country and an annual step count challenge in April. The organisation is also heavily involved in promoting active travel in Scotland and is aiming to become more involved in the social prescribing movement.
Paths for All is at stand 28 at The Gathering. For more information on the charity’s work, visit the Paths for All website.
