The Walking Group - Martin

Sheffield Visually Impaired Walking Group (SVIWG) organises volunteer-led walks for visually impaired people (VIPs) in and around Sheffield. This user-led group offers VIPs the opportunity to go walking regularly, assisted by trained volunteer guides. They are one of the sports and leisure groups that are supported by SRSB.

As a new VIP member to the walking group I was taken aback by how welcome I was made to feel with friendly guides and members from all walks of life. I am so glad I joined the group, it has given me a new sense of freedom and opened up a whole new world for me that I did't think would be possible being registered blind.

All the guides are excellent with brilliant walks around Sheffield and the outlying areas. You will never feel worried or stressed about obstacles as the guides are well trained and very descriptive. The guides are frequently rotated to give them a rest and to keep things fresh.

My first walk was around the outlying area through Chatsworth Park. It was a fantastic day out, I felt relaxed, safe and at the end of the walk I thought I'd had a mini holiday. My wellbeing felt topped up and revitalised with a new purpose to help others in the visually impaired community to come walking.

I would like to thank all the members but personally thank Gail for encouraging me to join the walking group. Thank you everyone for making me feel welcome, safe and making me feel so happy again.

If you are visually impaired and would like more information on joining this group, please visit the SVIWG website.