
The Chiltern Open Air Museum has been putting on walks for socially isolated older people since the start of the pandemic, and have now won the Best Local Social Prescribing Award by the Social Prescribing Network.
Project Lead, Jacqui Gellman, explains Accompanied Walks
“Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, we understood that difficulties for those members of the elderly community who were already experiencing social isolation, have been exacerbated. To help combat this and to promote and support the health and wellbeing of this often hidden sector of our community, we now invite individuals and couples (and dogs!) to the Museum, free of charge, for an accompanied walk with a friendly and knowledgeable Museum volunteer.
Participants have the opportunity to enjoy an hour’s walk around the museum (or can be driven around in a golf buggy) and learn about the 37 heritage buildings, gardens, park and woodland, or simply just chat. Before heading back home, we offer walkers refreshments, a chance for further conversation and invite them back for a return visit."
Accompanied Walks for older people (65+ years) will run from April to October on Wednesdays and Fridays.
For more information visit: https://coam.org.uk/events/accompanied-walks/