10
Nov
Volunteers wanted for new Natural Health Service in Nidderdale
Nidderdale National Landscape is calling for volunteers to help people get outdoors and meet others through its new Natural Health Service.
Government-funded Nidderdale National Landscape conserves and enhances the natural beauty of about 600 square kilometres, including Pateley Bridge, Masham and the Washburn Valley.
It is one of five protected landscape partners involved in the Natural Health Service, which started in October last year.
Rather than treating access to nature simply as recreation or tourism, the service aims to make the countryside part of the support available to people experiencing health and wellbeing difficulties.
As part of this, guided walks will begin in January 2027, volunteers are wanted to chat to participants and help activities run smoothly.
Appealing for volunteers today (November 10), Nidderdale National Landscape said it was looking for people with empathy, good listening skills and a willingness to make others.
Free training and outdoor kit will be provided, with funding available for petrol costs and out-of-pocket expenses.
Ben Winthrop, Natural Health Service coordinator, said:
A friendly conversation and some encouragement can help someone feel more comfortable about joining a walk or trying something new. We are looking for volunteers who can listen, put people at ease and help everyone feel welcome.
If you would like to help more people enjoy being outdoors, please get in touch for an informal chat about what is involved.
What is involved
Volunteers can support one or both of two activities. Breath of Fresh Air Walks will begin in January offering accessible, hour-long guided walks from locations across the national landscape. Volunteers would ideally help with two walks a month.
From February, 10-week nature connection and wellbeing programmes will support people with mild to moderate mental or physical health conditions. Activities will include walking and mindfulness, with locations chosen to suit each group’s needs and abilities.
The sessions will give participants opportunities to socialise and talk openly, while helping them build confidence in using public transport and finding their way on longer walks. The aim is to help people feel more confident about getting outdoors independently.
The programme will also involve professionals from health, social care and community services, including GPs.
Further programmes are planned for May, August and October 2027. Volunteers should ideally attend one session a week for a full programme, with a minimum commitment of five weeks. Sessions usually run from around 9.30am to 2.30pm.
All volunteers will receive free training in first aid, health and safety, mental health awareness and safeguarding.
The Natural Health Service for North Yorkshire brings together Nidderdale National Landscape, the North York Moors and Yorkshire Dales National Park Authorities and Howardian Hills National Landscape. It aims to improve wellbeing and reduce social isolation through nature-based activities.
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