Medal Routes has been designed by Ramblers Scotland after a pilot project proved successful
An innovative trial has helped people who use a drug treatment centre to get out and about.
Over the past year, Ramblers Scotland has been working with the City of Edinburgh Council and NHS Lothian’s Drug Treatment Testing Order office (DTTO) to offer walking routes to those undergoing treatment for substance abuse and NHS staff.
The Medal Routes app features 15, 30 and 60-minute circular walks at 80 locations throughout Edinburgh and the Lothians.
Participants were encouraged to take part by DTTO officers, with the vast majority reporting that short walks had a positive impact on their mood, wellbeing and health.
Councillor Ian Campbell, vice convener of culture and communities at City of Edinburgh Council, said: “We have been delighted to be involved with this pilot and our staff and services users who have been involved have been very positive about their experiences. To name just a few benefits - walking boosts your mood, helps you sleep better and reduces stress and anxiety.”
Ramblers Scotland director Jess Dolan said: “We’re really pleased that Medal Routes has helped improve the health and happiness of those using the DTTO office and its services, by encouraging people to enjoy all the benefits of walking.
“Participants in this trial join thousands of other people across Scotland who have used the Medal Routes app to find and enjoy free, fun walks in their local area.
“This pilot is a first for the Medal Routes project, and we now hope that we can work with other partners and hard-to-reach audiences across Scotland, as the feedback has been really positive.”
