The team kicked off the walking challenges with the The Great Wall of China virtual walk, which ran from October to January. Participants have since completed the Welsh Coastal Path, East to West Coast of Australia and Route 66.
They’re now taking on the Canals of Wales in-person on a socially distanced outdoor walk.
Participants Sue and Andrew Sutherland said, “Thank you so much for organising this morning’s walk around Cosmeston. It was so lovely seeing people after so long ( and meeting people we didn’t know who are regulars in the class from other days). It all felt so safe and really brought a smile to our faces.
“Really appreciate how you’ve kept us motivated during these difficult times and generally kept in touch with us all. Looking forward to being able to get to the “new normal”, which feels like it may not be too long now.”
Clients Mavis and Aubrey Slaughter expressed their thanks for the team’s efforts, “A tremendous success. It really felt like things were getting back to something like normal.
“It was also nice to meet the team and all the other walkers who have contributed to the success of the various walks undertaken during the lockdowns. We’ve had a good start to the week and have recorded over 10,000 steps already - which is a new record for us."
Cllr Kathryn McCaffer, Cabinet Member for Arts, Leisure and Culture, said, “NERS have been fantastic throughout lockdown, adapting to the demands of engaging clients remotely. These walking challenges are the first of their kind for the service and no doubt will continue long after Covid restrictions are lifted.
“The challenges, both virtual, and now in-person have given service users something to focus on and work toward. For many, it’s been a reason to leave the house and has been a huge support for mental and physical wellbeing.”