Retired journalist urges everyone with some spare time to embrace volunteering

Walk leader says volunteering provides her with a special buzz and huge a sense of achievement

Clare in a red hat with her walking group 

 Former journalist Clare Gabriel is urging anyone with spare time to think about volunteering because you’ll definitely gain as much satisfaction as those you support. 

Clare currently volunteers as a walk leader for Age Cymru. The charity’s walking groups promote physical activity to improve health and wellbeing in older people.   

The walks give older people the opportunity to get fit whilst enjoying the outdoors, and to socialise in a fun and friendly setting.  

The walks are carefully planned to suit all abilities, so no one is left behind. The social element is just as important for the participants, with most walks ending with a cuppa and a chat. 

Group leaders are given full training from Age Cymru’s Physical Activity team and all expenses are reimbursed.  

The charity says becoming a volunteer is rewarding on so many levels. Volunteers often say the best part about getting involved in the walking groups is the camaraderie, friendship, and the sense of achievement. It also provides an opportunity for volunteers to discover more of their local area and become more physically active. 

Clare Gabriel with a well-earned coffee 

 Clare says “I lead my walk on a Monday morning, so I always get a great buzz at the start of the week.  I’ve made some everlasting friendships, and we even organise group meals from time to time. 

 “I also get a great sense of satisfaction from giving something back to my community, something that will help people whether they need gentle exercise, companionship, or both.  I spent years working indoors so it feels great to be outside in the fresh air.” 

Age Cymru has a range of physical activity opportunities to suit all abilities such as Low Impact Functional Training (LIFT), Nordic Walking, Walk and Talk, and Tai Chi Qigong. 

For more information contact the Physical Activities Team at Age Cymru, Mariners House, Cardiff CF24 5TD.  Telephone 029 2043 1555, email physicalactivity@agecymru.org.uk, or visit www.agecymru.org.uk/physical-activity. 

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