From training to trailblazing!

Name: Sam, Active Travel Coordinator at North Halifax Partnership (NHP)

Training: Active Calderdale Walk Leader Training (Free!)

First Walk: 5 participants – a dad, his son, a friend, and two colleagues

Goal: Make walking more accessible, social, and meaningful in Halifax communities

Living and working in Halifax, Sam knew how many barriers people face when it comes to being active. However, through his role as Active Travel Coordinator at North Halifax Partnership (NHP), he saw an opportunity to change that narrative.

When Sam heard about the Walk Leader Training offered by Active Calderdale, he realised it was the right time to build his skills and enhance the Active Travel Hub offer. Setting up a free walking group in a safe and welcoming environment became a simple and effective way to reduce barriers and support people in North Halifax to be more active.

“People are stretched thin with work, kids, money, stress – and then you’ve got the hills and the weather to think about. Walking often slips to the bottom of the list.”

The Training that sparked a movement

The training didn’t just teach logistics like planning routes and managing risks – it gave confidence and reminded Sam that even a small, steady walk has value.

“You don’t need a big crowd or a ‘fitness’ goal. It’s about connection, wellbeing, and being present in your surroundings.”

A walk to remember

The first walk was small – just five people. However, it felt relaxed, not pressured, and left a lasting impression.

“It felt like a real start. The dad said it was great to spend time walking with his son – something he hadn’t felt up for doing on his own.”

Parent Feedback:

“It was great to spend time walking with my son. It’s not something I felt up for doing but the encouragement and motivation of a group made me start – and we both ended up enjoying it.”

Spreading the word – One conversation at a time

Promotion has been kept simple, from leaflets in community centres to word-of-mouth invitations; it’s clear that a warm and welcoming approach makes all the difference.

“Posters are great, but it’s the personal invite that gets people to show up. Especially when they’re unsure.”

Beyond Walking – Building a Community of Movement

As the Active Travel Coordinator at NHP, the work goes far beyond walking. From bike libraries to repair workshops, NHP has made it easier for local people to travel actively and confidently. Adding the walking offer seemed like the natural next step.

“Adding walking to our offer just made sense. Not everyone has a bike, walking is more accessible.”

Looking ahead, walks will incorporate creative and sensory activities – like bird spotting, local history storytelling, photography, and nature-based mindfulness. These added layers are key to engaging people year-round, especially through winter.

For those interested in starting a walking group but uncertain about the first steps, Sam recommends a Walk Leader Training session to develop both the skills and confidence required to make a meaningful impact.

“I’d recommend it to anyone. It gives you the tools to keep people safe, and just as importantly, it helps you believe that your walk – no matter how small – matters.”

Facebook - Active Travel Hubs North Halifax Partnership

Instagram - @active_travel_nhp

Email: active.travel@nhpltd.org.uk