Creating inclusive outdoor spaces

A Walk Leader’s Story with Wayfinder Calderdale

At Active Calderdale, we’re always inspired by community members who take the initiative to make physical activity more inclusive and accessible. One example is local parent Amber, Director of Wayfinder Calderdale. She recently completed our Walk Leader training and launched a new walking group for families of children with SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities). 

We caught up with them to learn more about their journey, motivations, and the impact of their walks so far.

A motivation close to home

For Amber, the idea grew from lived experience. As a parent of a child with SEND, she knows that getting outdoors can be far from straightforward. Sensory sensitivities, unpredictable weather, and worries about managing behaviour in public often make it difficult to join mainstream activities — even though the benefits of time in nature are undeniable.

She wanted to change that.

“I wanted to create a space where families could enjoy being outdoors without feeling pressure to ‘fit in’ — somewhere parents feel supported, and children can explore in their own way.”

Wayfinder Wanders offer just that: relaxed, welcoming walks where SEND families can connect, build confidence, and share the joy of being outside together.

From an idea to action

Amber first heard about the Walk Leader training through Active Calderdale, and it immediately stood out as the missing link — something that could help turn an informal idea into a sustainable community activity. The training provided both the structure and reassurance she needed to move forward.

“It covered not only the practical side of leading walks — things like risk assessments and planning routes — but also how to think about group dynamics and different needs that may come up.” 

Promotion for the walks has happened organically through Wayfinder Calderdale’s networks, social media, and local partnerships. Families have shared details with others who might benefit and helped to get the word out.

Across the first two Wayfinder Wanders at Cromwell Bottom Nature Reserve, 18 children and 14 adults took part. For a new initiative, the response has been fantastic — and feedback has been overwhelmingly positive.

Parents have described how refreshing it feels to be part of something where there’s no judgment or pressure.

One parent said,

“It was so lovely to get out in a beautiful setting with the kids.”

Simple moments like these are what make the walks so meaningful.

Wayfinder Calderdale is a community organisation dedicated to supporting children with SEND and their families. Their work centres on wellbeing, peer support, and reducing isolation.

Wayfinder Wanders is a natural extension of their mission - creating

opportunities for genuine connection through shared experiences in nature.

Looking ahead

The walks now run monthly at Cromwell Bottom Local Nature Reserve, with plans to expand to other areas of Calderdale. Amber hopes to train more volunteers so the project can grow sustainably and reach even more families.

“Ultimately, it’s about building a strong, ongoing community — where families come back, friendships grow, and confidence builds over time.”

Amber has no hesitation in recommending the Walk Leader Training to others.

“The training was practical and thorough, and it gave me the confidence to run walks in a way that feels safe and well thought-out.”

For anyone looking to bring people together through walking, the programme provides a solid and empowering foundation — helping ideas grow into initiatives that strengthen communities.

For further information and updates from Wayfinder, check out their social media feeds below:

Facebook Instagram