Getting Started

Communities On Foot Getting Started...

A community walking scheme developed by Ramblers Cymru JH/March 2010

Contents Introduction Setting up a project Section 1...... • A quick guide to setting up the project 3 • Setting up the project Section 2...... Planning a walk • A quick guide to getting started 7 • Where to walk 10 • Finding your way 13 • A quick guide to grading walks 16 • Walks Grading 16 Useful information Section 3...... Health & Safety • A quick guide to the Doʼs & Donʼts of Walking 18 • General Safety Rules 19 • Body Matters 21 • Natural Hazards 23 Section 4...... Walking for people with special conditions • A quick guide to walking for people with special conditions 26 • Asthma 27 • Blind & Visually impaired people 27 • People with epilepsy 30 • People with limited mobility & wheelchair users 30 Section 5...... Printed Materials 35 Walking Needs Survey 36 • Rationale behind the survey 38 • Survey 39 Planning Walks • Walking Checklist • Risk Assessment • Walk Route • Walk Poster Footsteps Awards • Bronze Award • Silver Award • Gold Award Footpath Survey • Footpath Guardians 55 • Guidance Notes 56 • Survey Forms 57 1 JH/March 2010

Foreword By Clive Williams Senior Access Officer Neath Port Talbot County Borough Council

The Communities on Foot is an exciting project that delivers positive results for both the community and the environment. By encouraging more people to walk in their local area not only do they get fitter but the quality (and sometimes quantity) of the footpaths they use improve.

Walking is almost the perfect form of exercise that virtually anyone can take part in, not only that but itʼs free! There are motability scooters that enable people who wouldnʼt otherwise be able to access many non-paved footpaths, and walking is also open to those with other forms of disabilities with only a few considerations and preparation (see information sheet in the pack for more information).

The contents of this pack were developed as part of a pilot project in 3 selected areas of Neath Port Talbot. The areas were Briton Ferry, Glyncorrwg and the ward of Pelenna (comprising the villages of Tonmawr and Pontrhydyfen). The pilot was established and facilitated by the Ramblers Cymru Field Officer Julie Hannam and supported by local Town / Community Councils, Development Trusts the Local Authority and other organisations (a full list of acknowledgements can be found at the back of the pack).

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A quick guide to getting started

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Communities on Foot in 5 easy steps

1. Decide on a start date and a few short local walks. 2. Publicise the walks in all your usual ways – posters and telling as many people as possible seem to work best. 3. Check out the walks a couple of days before to make sure they are still accessible and safe. 4. Print off the Footsteps Awards (to be found at the back of this toolkit). 5. Pack your rucksack (or bag) and away you go.

Remember that you can always contact Ramblers Cymru for advice or guidance. Tel: 029 20 644 308 www.ramblers.org.uk/wales

[Turn to the next page if you want a bit more detail or canʼt sleep…]

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Starting the communities on Foot project

Setting up a project in your local area couldnʼt be easier if you just follow the following key steps:

• Get a Town / Community Council or local group to agree to take part in the project • Nominate or agree 4-5 people to take the project forward • Draw up a list of potential walks in the local area (these may be on footpaths or pavements). Give each walk a theme or point of interest to encourage people to take part e.g. Spring Flowers, Bats, Mountain Views etc • Make contact with the Local Authority (Council) Rights of Way Officer to check the routes you want to walk and let them know that you are launching this project • Also contact your local Ramblers group as they may be able to help you plan / lead walks and talk to people about the joys of walking (information available from Ramblers Cymru central office and website www.ramblers.org.uk/wales) • Decide on a start date and how / when to launch the project – at a community event / as an event in itself with a local celebrity etc • Have a rough plan of about 5-6 walks (and dates) before the launch so that you can talk to people about these at the launch • Print off the materials for the “Footsteps Awards” “Walking needs Survey” and Flyers about the “Footpath Guardians” • Use the blank posters included in the pack to advertise the launch. Also get those involved to talk to as many people as possible as word of mouth is always the best advert • Enjoy yourself and have fun meeting new people and exploring your community

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Ideas from Ramblers groups to help you attract people

These are in no particular order nor are they infallible!

• Publicise both your walks and your group as widely as possible e.g. In local press, shops, libraries, hotels, pubs, surgeries etc • Have a presence at local fetes and carnivals • Keep existing members happy as most new members appear after talking to existing members • Ensure a range of different walks – long, medium and short distances • Try themed walks e.g. historic trail, bird watching or a photography outing • Shorter walks bring out more members • Family walks encourage children (future members) to come out • Vary the walks programme – weekdays, evenings in summer, alternate Saturday and Sunday walks • Encourage new members to lead walks using more experienced members to mentor them and accompany them on their recee • Use an appropriate “Walks etiquette” which might include a brief talk at the beginning, information about the group, a welcome to new members, introducing these people to others in the group who will make them welcome • “Brand” your group as local • Introduce a walking festival • The group itself needs to be a “bunch of caring and friendly people” • Once a member has joined a few walks encourage them to lead walks and help them to understand that the group relies on volunteers – but donʼt put them under any pressure!!

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Planning a walk... Starting out A quick guide

• Start out gradually and somewhere fairly flat– donʼt over do it on the first walk and put yourself off going out again • Make sure you can cut your walk short if necessary – always include “Escape Routes” in you route • There is no minimum distance you need to walk – most people can walk 2- 3 miles an hour. Remember to include time for rest stops and that unpaved paths will slow you down • Include a stop for a drink if possible (or bring along some refreshments). This will encourage people to talk about the walk and what theyʼve seen • Enjoy yourself

[Read on for more detailed information]

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Increasing Group Membership

The following suggestions for increasing group membership come from individual members are those that will help you to keep your membership numbers up. None of these are infallible and not all will be appropriate for all circumstances. They are listed in no particular order: • Publicise both your walks and your group as widely as possible e.g. in local press, shops, libraries, hotels, pubs, surgeries etc • Have a presence at local fetes and carnivals • Keep existing members happy as most new members appear after talking to existing members • Ensure a range of different walks - long, medium and short distances • Try themed walks e.g. a historic trail, a visit to a stately home, bird watching or photography outing • Shorter walks bring out more members • Family walks encourage children (future members) to come out • Vary the walks programme - weekdays, evening in summer, alternate Saturday and Sunday walks • Encourage new members to lead walks using more experienced members to mentor them and accompany them on their recce • Use appropriate ʻwalks etiquetteʼ which might include a brief talk at the beginning, information about the group, a welcome to new members or those coming along for the first time who may be potential members and, introduce these people to others on the walk who will make them welcome • ʻBrandʼ your group as local • Introduce a walking festival • The group itself needs to be a ʻbunch of caring and friendly peopleʼ • Once a member has joined encourage them to lead walks and help them to understand that the group relies on volunteers - but donʼt put them under any pressure! Members have noted difficulties resulting from: Competing walking clubs, too much work falling on one group member (theʼwilling horseʼ), problems with the RAʼs membershp system, new RA groups being formed taking numbers away from existing groups and failure of the local press to include group reports prominently. But donʼt despair!!! With your help Ramblers Cymru will grow and suceed in achieving our charity aims.

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First Steps As with any physical activity, itʼs best to begin gradually, learning the basics in safe surroundings and perhaps with other, more experienced walkers. Start by underestimating rather than overestimating your capabilities: youʼll soon learn how far you can walk before you start to feel tired. Donʼt push yourself too hard on distance and terrain: the idea is to enjoy yourself, and if you end up too stiff and sore it might put you off going out again.

First try out short walks along level paths, in populated areas where there is transport and accommodation near to hand and you can easily cut your walk short if you get tired, or get help if you get into trouble. Consider towpath and riverside walks, or low-level walks near to population centres.

You can start with very short walks, of say 2-3km/1.5-2 miles, and increase the distances covered once you get to know your capabilities. Thereʼs no target to aim for: do only as much as you enjoy. While some long distance walkers might easily walk around 30km or 20 miles in a day, most walkers are satisfied with much less.

How much time will I need? Most people can walk 3km/2 miles in an hour, but allow plenty of extra time to take rests along the route, and to enjoy your surroundings. Experienced walkers generally walk a little faster. Climbing hills also slows you down: the usual rule of thumb is to add half an hour for every 300m climbed.

Youʼll find you walk faster on smooth surfaces such as metalled paths and good tracks, while more difficult surfaces such as mud, sand and uneven ground will slow you down.

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Where to walk A quick guide to finding your way...

• You can find places that are traffic free even in towns and cities – parks, canal towpaths, heaths etc • There may also be “Heritage Trails” already marked in your area • In the countryside and on the edge of towns and villages there are many footpaths (“Public Rights of Way”) that are signposted along their route • Access land – where you can roam at will (marked on Ordnance Survey maps) • Look at guidebooks to give you ideas and pick up a copy of the ordnance survey map for your area – Explorer maps with an orange spine are the most useful

[Read the next couple of pages for more detailed information, at your leisure]

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Where to walk Walking in towns and cities Towns and cities offer public parks, canal towpaths, riverside paths, traffic- free pedestrian routes (perhaps shared with cyclists), commons, woodlands, heaths and nature reserves. Most towns also have ʻheritage trailsʼ which mainly follow streets and pavements, introducing you to the history and the architecture of the town. On the outskirts of cities you will often find Country Parks, usually offering signed walking routes and some paths suitable for disabled people.

Walking in the countryside England and Wales have a network of 225,000km/130,000 miles of ʻpublic rights of wayʼ, paths crossing private land which every walker has a legal right to use and which are shown on Ordnance Survey maps. There are many other paths, sometimes called ʻpermissive routesʼ, which you can use by permission of the landowner. Not all paths are easy to use, however, and itʼs possible you will encounter blocked or overgrown paths, particularly in arable areas. If you are ever challenged that the path you are on is not a public right of way, avoid conflict and check the route on the definitive map (available from your Local Authority) as the map you are following may not be up to date.

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There are also areas of ʻaccess landʼ. This is usually open, uncultivated countryside or woodland where you are free to wander at will. During 2004 and 2005 new rights to roam on most mountain, moor, heath, downland and "registered commons" in England and Wales were introduced. Much land owned by organisations like the National Trust and Forestry Commission is also open for public access. Most access land is shown on the newer Ordnance Survey maps.

Threading through Britainʼs footpaths and access areas is a growing network of named and signed routes ("promoted routes"). These vary from short circular walks and nature trails to lengthy challenges such as the 1014km/630-mile South West Coast Path around the Dorset, Devon and Cornwall. ʻNational Trailsʼ like the Coed Morgannwg Way, SWCP and the Thames Path, and Scottish Long Distance Routes, are nationally recognised routes of exceptional quality, but there are many other attractive routes created by councils, walkersʼ groups and even individuals. Longer routes donʼt have to be walked in one go: they are also popular as the basis of shorter walks.

There are countless guidebooks covering particular areas and themes, ranging from glossy productions by commercial publishers to collections produced by local walkers. Most favour circular routes starting from a point such as a car park or station, but may also include linear routes, where you return from another station or bus stop. Most guides include suggestions for refreshment stops and notes on interesting features along the way. Check carefully before you buy to see if the book contains routes which are within your capabilities in terms of distance and difficulty. Walk suggestions also appear regularly in magazines like Country Walking, available from newsagents.

Most places in Britain are perfectly safe for beginners to walk in. But there are a few remote, highland areas, particularly in parts of Wales, Scotland and northern England, where walkers need to take care, especially in bad weather. These areas are often very beautiful and attractive, but beginners should stick to well-marked paths in the valleys and lower slopes: stay away from the high tops unless you know what youʼre doing and you are properly equipped, or in the company of an experienced leader or guide.

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Finding your way While there are many opportunities to go walking with a led group or a good guidebook, regular walkers usually find that carrying and using a good map enormously enhances their enjoyment and opens new opportunities. With a map you can devise your own routes, get a better idea of the surrounding countryside and possible detours and shortcuts, and get back on the right track more easily if you get lost.

Britainʼs national mapping agency, the Ordnance Survey (OS), publishes the excellent Explorer series of maps at 1:25 000 scale, ideal for walkers since they show public paths, longer signed routes, locations of circular walks, access areas and all sorts of other useful information. In urban areas you may be better off with a street atlas: the Philip's series show most off-road paths, parks and open spaces.

Basic map-reading skills are easy to learn. You can gain experience by walking a route from a guidebook and attempting to follow the same route on the map, relating what you see on the ground to the map. Choose an easy, safe route and go in good weather where you can clearly see the surrounding countryside. Once youʼre confident with reading a map, you can use it to plan your own routes. There are numerous books, leaflets, CD-ROMs and even taught courses that will help you learn these skills.

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A quick guide to what to take... • A pair of well fitting shoes – you may want to invest in a pair of walking boots and socks when you get the walking bug! • Wear comfortable clothes and remember our weather is prone to change quickly – layers are best, with the top layer a waterproof one • Water and maybe a snack to keep you going (you need water even if itʼs cold) • A bag to hold any spare clothes, water, food etc. A small rucksack is best and easiest to carry • You can spend as little or as much as you want on “Walking Gear” – you decide what you want

[Read the next couple of pages for a more detailed look at walking kit]

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What to take... For most walks in Britain, you will need very little in the way of specialist equipment and clothing. For short walks in urban areas or easy countryside, all you need is a good, comfortable pair of shoes that wonʼt cause blisters, and ordinary comfortable clothing.

• Use tough shoes that are a good fit, with arch support, a slightly elevated heel and ʻbreathableʼ uppers such as fabric or leather: casual shoes or quality trainers (sneakers) with heavy soles will do. If you go walking regularly, you could invest in a pair of proper walking shoes, or some lightweight walking boots: these will give your feet and ankles proper support, and will be much more waterproof. Wellingtons may be adequate for short walks in very wet conditions but are not recommended for longer walks. If you only intend to go on easy, lowland walks, thereʼs no need to buy a pair of expensive heavy-duty boots which will only weigh you down; for highland walks over difficult terrain, however, good walking boots are essential • Wear loose-fitting, comfortable clothes appropriate to the weather: in Britain itʼs always advisable to take a waterproof top layer or anorak. Several layers of clothing are best, since they insulate better and you can take them on or off as needed - for example, a T-shirt; then a sweatshirt or fleece, then a waterproof jacket on top • As with any other physical exercise, you will need to replace fluids lost through exertion: still water (tap or mineral) is by far the best for this, though some walkers also like to take a hot drink in an insulated flask, especially in colder weather. Food will boost your energy, and also give you the opportunity for an enjoyable break • A small rucksack or backpack, sometimes called a ʻdaysackʼ, is the best way to carry food, drink, maps and guidebooks, spare layers of clothing and other essentials: it will be much more comfortable and better-balanced than bags held in the hand or over one shoulder

If you walk regularly, there is a huge range of clothing and equipment on the market to make your walking more comfortable: a good pair of boots, proper walking socks, a lightweight breathable waterproof jacket and a well-made daypack are all very useful items and for walking in challenging terrain, proper clothing and equipment are essential.

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Walks Grading Which grade is best for you? A quick guide...

• Easy Access - Suitable for all • Easy - suitable if not serious fitness or mobility problem, may need to lift pushchairs over small obstructions • Leisurely - includes some unsurfaced paths, may need walking boots • Moderate - may include steep paths and open countryside. Walking boots essential • Strenuous - need to be experienced country walkers with a good level of fitness • Technical - experienced and very fit, will need technical equipment

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How easy is this walk? Walks are graded for difficulty as follows:

• Easy Access Walks for everyone, including people with conventional wheelchairs and pushchairs, using easy access paths. Comfortable shoes or trainers can be worn. Assistance may be needed to push wheelchairs on some sections: please enquire • Easy Walks for anyone who does not have a mobility difficulty or a specific health problem or is seriously unfit. Suitable for pushchairs if they can be lifted over occasional obstructions. Comfortable shoes or trainers can be worn • Leisurely Walks for reasonably fit people with at least a little country walking experience. May include unsurfaced rural paths. Walking boots and warm, waterproof clothing are recommended • Moderate Walks for people with country walking experience and a good level of fitness. May include some steep paths and open country, and may be at a brisk pace. Walking boots and warm, waterproof clothing are essential • Strenuous Walks for experienced country walkers with an above average fitness level. May include hills and rough country, and may be at a brisk pace. Walking boots and warm, waterproof clothing are essential. People in doubt about their fitness are advised to contact the organiser or leader in advance • Technical Walks for experienced and very fit walkers with additional technical skills. May require scrambling and use of ropes, ice axes and crampons. You must contact the organiser or leader in advance for further details

Important. Grades are provided as a general guide only: You should also bear in mind the distance of the walk, regional differences in terrain and the possibility of bad weather, which can make a walk more difficult than planned. If you're unsure of your fitness level, try a short and easy walk first: it's much better to find a walk a little too slow and easy than to make yourself miserable and exhausted. Leaders may refuse to accept participants who in their opinion are inadequately equipped or unfit.

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A quick guide to the Doʼs and Donʼts of walking... • DO make sure you know the weather forecast and wear the right clothes • DO make sure that you and the seconder (at the back) know the route • DO let someone know when youʼre due back (and let them know youʼve arrived) • DO follow the highway code when walking on roads • DO make sure that if you carry a mobile phone it is fully charged and has reception • DO carry a basic first aid kit if walking off the beaten track • DONʼT take unnecessary risks – use your common sense • DONʼT rush across level crossings • DONʼT underestimate the effects of the weather – heat and cold • DONʼT forget to take water with you • DONʼT walk between a cow and her calf The next few pages address all the health and safety of walking in more detail.

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Health and Safety for walkers Walking is one of the most accessible pastimes: you can safely walk in towns or easy countryside without any specialist clothing, equipment or skills. If you plan to go deeper into the countryside, however, you will be more comfortable, safe and secure if you take a little time to prepare and follow a few simple rules. And if you intend to go into more remote and rugged countryside, you should certainly know what you are doing. Safety and security General safety rules Walking in most of Britain should present no serious problems even to a beginner, provided you follow a few simple rules. • Donʼt take unnecessary risks by tackling overly long or difficult routes • Know where you are or have a map and the ability to read it • On longer walks, be aware of "escape routes" in case you need to cut your walk short for whatever reason • Make sure you have plenty to eat and drink and are adequately dressed for the length of time youʼll be out • Take a sensible approach to the weather, which in Britain is rarely severe but changeable and often wet. Check the forecast before you set out (try the Met Office), always take a waterproof and keep an eye on the sky. Rain, mist or fog and cold are the obvious hazards, but strong winds can be a problem too, especially on exposed hillsides or coastal cliffs • Make sure someone knows when you expect to be back While no activity is entirely without risk and fears for personal security are understandable, do also bear in mind that incidents of personal attacks and assaults from strangers are still thankfully extremely rare. Walking on roads When walking on roads, follow the advice in the Highway Code. Use the pavement if there is one and safe crossings wherever possible, help drivers to see you, and where there is no pavement walk on the right, facing oncoming traffic, crossing to the other side before sharp right-hand bends. Take special care on country roads with no pavements where traffic may be moving very fast.

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Level crossings Take special care when crossing railway lines using level crossings, especially "user controlled" crossings along footpaths where there are no automatic barriers or railway staff. Remember that it is much more difficult to stop a train than a car.

Always obey alarm warning signals and lights, keep children with you, and keep dogs on a lead. If there are no warnings or lights, stop, look and listen, then look again before you cross, remembering that trains travel faster than you think and that curving lines and overgrown vegetation can sometimes obscure the view. If it is safe, cross quickly, taking care not to trip on the rails. On user controlled crossings, make sure you shut both sets of gates behind you.

When walking in a group, don't just follow the person in front. Everyone should take responsibility for their own safety and stop, look and listen before crossing.

Mobile phones Mobile phones (cellphones) can be useful to take on a walk and have sometimes proved helpful in emergencies. However, they don't work in some locations, particularly in some hilly and remote areas, they depend on limited battery power, and the signals from them cannot be pinpointed with any accuracy. They are not a substitute for other safety precautions and the mountain rescue services stress they should be used to call for help only in cases of real emergency. If you do call for help, make sure to keep your mobile turned on so the emergency services can call you back.

For information about the geographical coverage of mobile phone networks, contact the network provider, or to compare different providers' coverage, visit the GSM Association website.

112 is the European-wide emergency number that can be used if you are outside of the coverage provided by your network.

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Body matters Temperature and water In cold weather the greatest danger is hypothermia or exposure: this occurs where the body temperature is chilled to a life-threatening level, and is aggravated by wind chill. To avoid it make sure you have enough warm clothing and extra food and plenty of water.

In warm weather, the principle hazards are sunburn, windburn and dehydration. Sunhats, sun cream, and water can prevent serious sunburn or heatstroke.

Don't underestimate the amount of water you need. Doctors recommend drinking 1.5-2 litres of water a day even for an ordinarily active lifestyle, and you will need more if you walking strenuously and/or the weather is hot. Don't wait until you're thirsty to drink. Still mineral or tap water is adequate: fizzy drinks are not recommended as they take longer to drink, a problem if you need to rehydrate quickly. Avoid drinking unboiled or unpurified water from streams, and when in the hills carry emergency water purification tablets.

First Aid You should not walk in remote areas without a basic knowledge of first aid. Carry a basic first aid kit, which should include: • 10 plasters in various sizes • 2 large sterile dressings for management of severe bleeding • 1 medium sterile dressing for care of larger wounds • 4 triangular bandages to support suspected broken bones, dislocations or sprains • 1 eye pad in case of a cut to the eye • 4 safety pins to secure dressings • disposable gloves to implement good hygiene Ready-made first aid kits for walkers are available from outdoor shops. St John Ambulance Supplies do a kit especially for walkers, as do the British Red Cross The fundamental rule of first aid is warmth, rest and reassurance. Even more useful is a short course on basic first aid.

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Blisters Blisters are simply the result of friction, but they can make a walk a miserable experience. To help prevent blisters: • Wear comfortable, good-fitting, worn-in boots or shoes, especially on long walks • Wear good walking socks in the right size; consider wearing two pairs • Keep your toenails trim • Change your socks daily • Quickly remove any foreign bodies from your socks and boots • Ensure that the tongue and laces of your boots are arranged correctly and evenly • Check your feet carefully and regularly for any sign of rubbing and tenderness • Walk as much as possible in your boots so that hard skin develops at friction points • Act immediately you feel any friction or discomfort: blisters can form very quickly If you feel a blister developing, stop walking, take your boots and socks off and examine your feet. Consider applying some material cushioning or padding, or a breathable waterproof plaster, or possibly some strips of surgical tape. There is some controversy over how to treat blisters when they do occur. Some walkers prefer to burst the blister carefully and immediately apply a sterile dressing. Others argue this runs the risk of infection, and instead recommend keeping the blistered area clean and protected.

Chemists and outdoor shops now supply a wide range of foot care products, including blister kits with ʻsecond skin' dressings providing cushioning from further friction. Use according to the manufacturer's instructions.

Hygiene Walkers should use proper toilets whenever possible. The same rules apply to dog waste, which can also be disposed of in clearly marked disposal bins often provided in parks and picnic areas. Allowing your dog to foul a footpath or a public open space may contravene local byelaws or the Dogs (Fouling of Land) Act 1996. 22 JH/March 2010

Natural Hazards Dogs and cattle Treat untethered bulls and loose dogs with caution. Back away slowly, and report the incident to the police if you consider the situation unlawful as well as dangerous.

Other livestock can often be deterred from following you too closely by turning to face them with both arms raised. Don't brandish a stick, as this may excite them, and use an ordinary speaking voice rather than shouting. Don't walk between a cow and her calf. If you are threatened by cattle when walking a dog, you should let the dog off the lead - it's better that they go after your dog than you. Insects Insects can be a serious irritant, especially midges in Scotland in the summer. Consider carrying an insect repellent, and know how to treat bites and stings. Ticks and Lyme Disease Ticks are tiny blood-sucking insects found in moist, coarse, permanent vegetation in woodland, heath and moorland including bracken, leaf litter and decaying mats of grass and sedges, particularly in places where deer live, attaching themselves to passing animals and humans. Some ticks carry infections that can affect humans, the most serious of which is lyme disease. Although seldom fatal, lyme disease is a debilitating condition that can remain in the body for many years, affecting the nerves and occasionally even leading to chronic arthritis and heart conditions. Lyme disease is still very rare, though by no means unknown.

Ticks need to be attached to the body for at least 24-36 hours to transmit the disease and even if you come into contact with them, it should be possible to detect and remove them before any harm is done. The highest risk is in late spring and early summer when the tick is most active and feeding. If you walk through rough vegetation, especially during these months, consider taking the following precautions: • wear close-weave long trousers and long-sleeved shirts, and keep cuffs fastened and trousers tucked into socks (light-coloured clothing make spotting ticks easier), shoes or boots rather than open sandals, or protect

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bare skin on arms and legs with insect repellent: DEET or permethrin can protect against ticks for several hours • If you find a tick, remove it immediately, preferably with tweezers. Grasp it firmly as close as possible to the skin, and pull firmly and steadily without jerking or twisting until it disengages itself - try not to squash since it could squirt blood. Wash your hands and the bite area afterwards, using disinfectant if available • remember that dogs are also vulnerable to ticks: protect them with insect repellent or a tick collar after your walk, carefully brush all clothing after your walk and examine your body carefully for ticks, including their favourite feeding places - the backs of knees, groin, under the arms and on the scalp If part of the tick breaks off, or if you think any part of it may be left in your skin, consult your doctor immediately. If possible, take the tick with you, folded in sticky tape, so that it can be sent for analysis. If you think you have been bitten by a tick, seek medical advice straight away, indicating that you are concerned about the risk of lyme disease, since early treatment with antibiotics will normally prevent the illness developing any further.

Further information on lyme disease and ticks can be obtained from NHS Direct, or from the charity Lyme Disease Action who have a range of free literature on the subject.

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Suggested Reading • Out in the Country: Where you can go and what you can do (CA9), free leaflet from The Countryside Agency with useful section on personal safety • The Highway Code, from bookshops and newsagents or online at the Highway Code website: see Department for Transport • First Aid Manual (8th ed) by St John Ambulance, St Andrews Ambulance and British Red Cross, ISBN 0 7513 3704 8. Dorling Kindersley £11.99 The standard manual offering expert all-round medical advice • New Practical First Aid by the British Red Cross, ISBN 0 7513 4770 1. Dorling Kindersley £5.99. A concise and indispensable guide • Medical Handbook for Walkers & Climbers by Peter Steele, ISBN 0 094 78210 5. Constable £12.99

Courses • BMC (information on mountain training courses) Country Venture Activities • MLTW (information on mountain leader training courses) • Peak National Park Centre • Plas y Brenin National Mountain Centre • Seren (beginners' hillwalking courses in Snowdonia) • Kevin Walker Mountain Activities • YHA Edale Activity Centre • Ramblers Cymru - information on training available for all levels • Sports Leaders UK, LWC (Lets Walk Cymru, - training for easy walks)

First aid

• St John Ambulance (England and Wales) • High Peak First Aid (private specialist courses for outdoor activities) • Rescue Emergency Care (private specialist courses for outdoor activities) • Adventure First Aid (private specialist courses for outdoor activities)

The information on this page is accurate to the best of our knowledge. The Ramblersʼ Association cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracies, nor does the listing of any organisation imply that the Ramblers in any way recommends or endorses them.

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A quick guide to walking for people with special conditions... • Asthma – walking is an excellent way to gradually build up your fitness and this can help Asthma sufferers • Blind and visually impaired people – while many are able to move about urban environments fairly easily, walking on unpaved paths may be made easier with a sighted companion • Deaf and hard of hearing people – may find it easier to walk with a group if they donʼt usually walk for pleasure (training is available for walk leaders) • People with Diabetes – moderate physical activity like walking is beneficial especially if the level is gradually built up • People with epilepsy – many control their symptoms with medication, however they should inform a companion or the walk leader if prone to seizures • People with limited mobility and wheelchair users – the problems vary greatly and some may be able to navigate obstacles with a little help. Users of traditional wheelchairs can encounter serious problems, although all-terrain mobility scooters are available (but will still encounter problems with stiles, steps and narrow paths) • Always contact your doctor if you have any concerns or questions.

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Walking for people with special conditions The specific problems encountered by people with special conditions in enjoying the outdoors vary according to the individual special condition. Below is practical advice relating to individual conditions.

People with asthma Improving overall fitness can be very helpful in combating asthma by increasing lung capacity and helping relaxation. Walking is an excellent way to do this by starting off with easy walks and building up slowly. You should take the following special precautions: • Use your reliever-inhaler at least 30 minutes before you set out, and make sure you take it with you • Always warm up with ten minutes of gentle exercise to build up your breathing rate slowly • Breathe through your nose, not just your mouth: the nose-hairs help warm up the air • Try to avoid pollution by choosing routes away from busy roads, especially during rush hours. Try to avoid urban walks on days when pollution levels are high (check weather reports): if you live in a city, look for large open spaces or wide expanses of water. If pollution is a particular problem, for example during the pollen season if you also suffer from hay fever, try indoor exercise such as "mall walking" • Take it easy on cold, dry days. Try breathing through a fleece or silk scarf when the air is cold For more detailed information on walking with asthma see the book Walking for Health, available from us. General information about asthma, including advice on exercise, is available from the National Asthma Campaign.

Blind and visually impaired people The mobility of blind and partially sighted people varies enormously. While many blind people are able to move around urban environments relatively freely and independently, off-road paths with uneven surfaces and obstacles can prove more difficult. Going out with a sighted companion to act as a guide is the easiest way of overcoming such difficulties if someone is prepared to do this.

27 JH/March 2010

Some other points to note: • Some routes and trails have been designed with blind and visually impaired people in mind, though these are usually fairly short. Details are available from the same sources as details of easy access walks (see People with limited mobility below). This doesn't mean that visually impaired people will only be interested in such trails -- there is much to enjoy in the outdoors besides its sights • Visually impaired people often find walking downhill trickier than walking uphill: try to plan a route that avoids too many downhill stretches, or allow plenty of time for them • Although they will appreciate the exercise, guide dogs are often of little help on country walks since they are usually trained for urban streets, and may also have problems with stiles and gates. As with any other dog, they must to be kept under close control, particularly near livestock • Several organisations, including some Ramblers local Groups, organise group walks for blind and partially sighted people: see Walks for visually impaired people. Try also your local Ramblers Area, Cardiff Institute for the Blind, the RNIB, local libraries and information centres or local blind groups. Some groups can put you in touch with people locally who are prepared to take small groups or individuals on walks. The RNIB also offer some walking holidays for blind people

Specific advice for sighted walking group leaders planning group walks for blind and partially sighted people is included in our Let's Get Going factsheet pack. General information and advice is available from the RNIB; for information about guide dogs contact Guide Dogs for the Blind. The Ramblers membership magazine is available on tape: contact us Deaf and hard of hearing people

Deaf or hard of hearing people can enjoy the same walks as other walkers. The only particular problems are:

• road and rail crossings with poor visibility where you will need to take special care • getting lost, if you find it difficult to communicate with hearing people to ask the way. Choose well-signed or otherwise easy to follow routes, or make sure of your navigation skills

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• walking in groups with hearing people, where the leader issues instructions verbally. Advice to hearing walks leaders taking deaf and hard of hearing people on walks is available in our Let's Get Going pack

For general information and advice contact the British Deaf Association or RNID. People with diabetes

Moderate physical activity is very beneficial for people with diabetes, helping to control blood sugar levels and body weight, and to overcome tiredness. Type 2 (non-insulin-dependent) diabetes can sometimes be controlled by diet and exercise alone. Walking is an excellent way of exercising by starting off with easy walks and building up slowly. You should take the following special precautions:

• Consult your diabetes team before beginning a new programme of exercise • Plan your sugar intake and insulin injections carefully around your walk. As walking uses up glucose, you may find you need less insulin • Avoid injecting in your legs just before a walk: exercising the leg muscles may cause the insulin to be absorbed too quickly • Check your blood sugar level 15 minutes before walking and 1 hour after you finish. If there is a great difference, consult your doctor before taking a longer walk. If your blood sugar level is unusually high before walking, don't exercise until it has returned to normal • Carry glucose with you • If you are prone to frequent hypoglycaemic episodes (hypos) without warning, go walking with a friend who knows what to do if a hypo occurs • Delayed hypos (up to 36 hours) can occur as the muscles refuel after activity. If you exercise intensely you may need to make meal adjustments to avoid this

• Take special care to look after your feet

29 JH/March 2010

For more detailed information see the book Walking for Health, available from us. For general information, including factsheets on exercise for people with diabetes, contact Diabetes UK. People with epilepsy People with epilepsy which is controlled effectively with medication can generally enjoy the same walks as able bodied people, except that some epileptics don't drive so will not be able to access walks by car. However you should note the following points, particularly if you are prone to epileptic seizures: • Build up your exercise slowly and gently and don't stress or overtire yourself • Carry an Epilepsy ID Card issued by Epilepsy Action • Think about the terrain when planning a walk. Avoid very steep climbs and descents, or paths close to steep drops. The biggest danger during a seizure is usually head injury from a fall, so rocky or uneven paths may pose problems • Plan routes that are easy to cut short if you become too tired or if you have a seizure • If you are especially concerned about seizures, walk with a companion who knows what to do if one should occur • If you join a group walk without a companion, inform the walk leader of your condition and tell them where your ID Card can be found. Advice to walks leaders taking people with epilepsy on walks is available in our Let's Get Going pack • For general information, contact Epilepsy Action People with limited mobility and wheelchair users The problems encountered in the outdoors by people of limited mobility vary greatly. Not all people with limited mobility use wheelchairs, and some may only have problems with specific obstructions such as stiles and steps. People who cannot bend over easily will find problems with overhanging vegetation. People who would find certain obstacles insurmountable on their own may be able to negotiate them with the aid of an able-boded companion.

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On the other hand, users of traditional wheelchairs can encounter serious problems, especially on rural paths. Although wheelchairs are permitted in the same places as pedestrians, there is no guarantee the terrain will be suitable for them, with stiles and other obstructions such as fallen trees, uneven, muddy or overgrown surfaces, cross slopes, steep hills, steps and narrow paths. Many wheelchair users have problems on anything steeper than a 1:40/2.5% slope, while stronger and more ambitious wheelchair users could cope with 1:20/5% or steeper. Surfaces should ideally be flat, smooth and reasonably hard, with a minimum of cross slopes and loose stones, especially on corners or where the path is raised.

Powered wheelchairs designed for street use also have problems on many off-road paths. Three-wheeled battery-powered all-terrain mobility scooters designed for use on more rugged routes widen the options, but these can be expensive and will still encounter problems with stiles, steps, and narrow or blocked paths.

People with limited mobility are also likely to require other facilities such as regular rest stops which for wheelchairs should be level; accessible toilets; suitable parking spaces at the start of a walk which may need to be wide enough for wheelchair use; or accessible public transport.

The lack of off-road routes that are easily accessible is made worse by the lack of detailed information about the physical features of paths. When such information is available, people with limited mobility can decide for themselves if a particular route is within their ability, either by themselves or with a companion, but without the information it is difficult to set off with confidence.

Thankfully some local authorities and other organisations who provide for walking and outdoor recreation are at last starting to take accessibility seriously. Some local councils and other organisations concerned with walking and the outdoors now provide routes and trails that have been specially adapted to make them more accessible (sometimes with wide gates that can only be opened with a RADAR key), and are providing more detailed information about accessibility at other routes and sites. Some trails have signed diversions avoiding steps and other obstructions. Some country parks and other countryside sites have mobility scooters for loan, and may be able to arrange special assistance for visitors with disabilities. Such improvements should continue under recent legislation on countryside and disability issues.

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A growing database of walks suitable for wheelchair users can be found here: www.walkswithwheelchairs.com, an independent site that has route descriptions available for download.

The Ramblers are gradually including useful local information, where available, in the Walking in your region or country section on our website, and can sometimes assist individual enquirers. Information should also be available from the following organisations, though the amount of information and its usefulness may vary from area to area.

• Local authorities: for details of local easy access trails, parks and open spaces including Country Parks • National Trail, Long Distance Route and other promoted route offices: these are listed under the routes themselves in our Promoted Routes section • Offices managing large areas of countryside with public access • Tourist Information Centres and local libraries (see the phone book) • Local disability groups (ask at information centres or libraries) • Fieldfare Trust, an organisation that works to improve access to the countryside for everyone • Disabled Ramblers, who also organise group outings on all-terrain scooters • Some local Ramblers Areas who organise special events for people with limited mobility • RADAR for RADAR keys and other useful mobility information • Public transport information services for details of accessible transport, or Tripscope for specialist advice Advice to able bodied walks leaders taking people with limited mobility on walks is available in our Let's Get Going pack. Fieldfare Trust can supply information and good practice guidelines for councils and other countryside and outdoors service providers.

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Useful Information Funding opportunities To help with the cost of starting and then developing a Communities on Foot project it may be worthwhile exploring potential funding from the following sources:

• www.wcva.org.uk • Sports Council for Wales • Communities First Trust Fund (where applicable) • Local Community grants • The Big Lottery Fund (and all of its funding programmes) • Your local Council for Voluntary Service (CVS) – who will also help you constitute your group and set up a bank account (if necessary)

Other sources of information Ramblers www.ramblers.org.uk Sports Council Wales www.sports-council-wales.org.uk Awards for All www.awardsforall.org.uk/wales Big Lottery Fund www.biglotteryfund.org.uk/wales

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Practical Materials for getting started...

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Printed materials In this section of the pack you will find copies of all the practical materials needed to turn the Communities on Foot project from a good idea into a great local project.

These materials are also available on the disc provided and can be downloaded from our website www.ramblers.org.uk/wales so that you can adapt them to your area and requirements - please retain the logoʼs etc. This may also make it easier for you to print the materials and share them with other community members, organisers and partners.

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Walking Needs Survey Background Rational The questionnaire will gather information and data that can then be used for the following purposes:

• Baseline level of fitness / physical activity • Barriers to walking • Encouragements to walk (more) • Condition of local walking environment

This questionnaire is an important piece of evidence for the development of the CoF project as it highlights the needs of each of the communities and will show that while there may be common responses “One size does not fit all” in terms of possible solutions. Baseline level of fitness / physical activity There are 3 questions that gather information that can be used to determine this baseline, which is an important starting point in terms of assessing the success of this project at the end of year one.

Question 1 “How often do you walk for exercise or pleasure?” focuses specifically on walking frequency, which can be used to both analyse the interest in walking (but not intensity) and the importance to the individual – the frequency. Additionally this question can be used when compared to data gathered at the end of year one to show if there has been an increase in walking within the specific community.

Question 6 “Do you take part in any other sport?” looks at any other physical activity that respondents may participate in. This will help to add information to the initial baseline for physical activity. The answers given to this question will show the types of physical activity that are popular within the local community.

Question 7 “How long do you exercise each week?” will provide information on the levels of physical activity and can also then be used for comparison at the end of the project.

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Barriers to walking: There are 2 questions that examine the barriers that people face in terms of the amount of walking they participate in (real or perceived). The information gathered here will provide insights into what specific barriers the CoF project needs to tackle in each community. Question 3 “What prevents you from walking more?” will provide data on the barriers that the project and its partner organisations need to address and additionally show the level of each barrier in the individual communities. Question 4 “What would encourage you to walk more often?” while clearly highlights ways to encourage walking will also further illustrate individual barriers to walking and their perceptions of what “walking” involves e.g. A local walking group → a need for company / confidence to take part in walking. Encouragements to walk (more): There are 4 questions that will yield information and data concerning what will encourage people to increase their participation in walking within a specific community.

Question 2 “For what reasons do you walk?” provides data on the type of walking that community members currently take part in - for pleasure, practical or economical reasons, or to exercise pets. This information will help to identify the ways in which the project can expand the communityʼs current walking experience e.g. highlight different routes to shops etc. that take local footpaths and show some “hidden gems” or shortcuts that are away from main roads and lead to longer walks. Question 4 “What would encourage you to walk more often?” will clearly inform the development of the project specific to the local area and will also help to drive the project forward in a positive way. This also applies to question 5 “Would you be interested in any of the following?” which identifies the interests that local people have in their area and the type of walking they would like to take part in if any barriers they have can be overcome. Question 6 “Do you take part in any other sport?” can be used to encourage community members to walk more and it can be used to supplement training they already take part in e.g. For a team sport such as Rugby, netball etc. This information can also be used to highlight the low cost of walking and the use of the local environment as a type of “Green Gym” without the membership fees. 37 JH/March 2010

Condition of local walking environment: There are 3 questions that provide information regarding the actual and perceived condition of local footpaths. This may be due to the actual condition of the footpaths, historical reasons concerning the area or interference by a landowner. Questions 3 “What prevents you from walking more?” and 4 “What would encourage you to walk more often?” both have an option concerning footpath condition. Question 3 highlights this as a barrier to walking in the local area. In question 4 the option is that an improvement in local footpaths would act as encouragement. Neither of these questions actually raises the option of being involved in helping to maintain Rights of Way. This is addressed by question 5 “Would you be interested in any of the following” and will help to identify initial levels of support and interest in the footpath surveys and “Footpath Guardian” scheme. Completion of questionnaire: The questionnaires will be completed in the following ways • At the launch events in each community • Via monkey survey with links to local websites (this may only be appropriate in some areas) • Door to door completion in specified areas • Via local community groups e.g. Mother & Toddler, Health & Well-being etc Analysis of data: The data gathered will be analysed by pictorial methods (charts and tables), narrative analysis and / or via survey monkey. Publication of Data: The data will can be published in the following ways once it has been completed • E-newsletter (for CoF project) • Local newsletters • Project report • Other sources as appropriate 38 JH/March 2010

Do you Ramble? We are starting a new project “Communities on Foot” soon and would be grateful if you could take a couple of minutes to answer the following questions. Part 1 1. How often do you walk for exercise or pleasure? (Please tick) Every day K 2-3 times a week K Once a week K Once a month K 3-6 times a year K Never K Other (Please specify) ...... 2. For what reasons do you walk? (Please tick all that apply) To get to work K Go to shops K Exercise animals K Visit friends and family K For pleasure K Donʼt walk K 3. What prevents you from walking more? (Please tick all that apply) Time K Interest K Condition of footpaths K Company / someone to go with K Cost Involved K Lack of knowledge of local walks K Poor Health K 4. What would encourage you to walk more often? (Please tick all that apply) A local walking group K More information about local footpaths K Improved condition of local walks K Improved health K Other K 5. Would you be interested in any of the following? (Please tick all that apply) Wildlife / wild flower walks K Guided walks K Activity walks K Family walks K Heritage walks K Being involved in a Local Ramblers Group K Helping to maintain walks / Rights of way K 6. Do you take part in any other sport? No K Yes K (Please specify) ...... 39 JH/March 2010

If you answered yes to question how often do you take part in this / these sports? (Please tick) Every day K 2-3 times a week K Once a week K Once a fortnight K Once a month K 6 times a year K 1-5 times a year K

7. How long do you exercise each week? (Please tick) 30mins + each day K 3 hours a week K 2hours a week K 1 hour a week K 30min - 1hour a week K None K Part 2 (Please complete if you would like more information about “Communities on Foot”) Your Name ...... Address ...... Contact number ...... E-mail address ......

I do / do not agree to my personal data being used for future contact by Ramblers Cymru (Please delete as appropriate)

Age Group (Please tick) Under 16 K 16 - 25 K 26 - 39 K 40 - 49 K 50 - 59 K 60 - 69 K 70+ K

Thank You for taking part in this survey

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Footstep Awards • This will provide good opportunities for publicity both in local media and community newsletters. • Each walk a volunteer / community member goes on they get a stamp on the form. • There is a separate card for each level that can be worked towards → Bronze, Silver and Gold. The awards are simply for the number of walks participated in e.g. 5 Walks = Bronze, +5 = Silver and +5 = Gold (therefore total of 15 walks completed to achieve all 3 levels / Gold).

Footsteps Award

Cyngor Cefn Gwlad Cymru Bronze Countryside Council for Wales

e.g. Victoria Gardens → Gnoll Visitors Centre, Stamp Walk 1 around the lower cascades → back to Victoria gardens.

...... Stamp Walk 2 ......

...... Stamp Walk 3 ......

...... Stamp Walk 4 ......

...... Stamp Walk 5 ......

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Required materials: Pre-printed cards Stamp(s) [possibly multiple for each different level.] Prizes for each level (walking kit e.g.Pedometre, gaitors, stick etc.) Preparation Work: Identify walks for each area (use local knowledge where available) Identify “ease of access” on each walk. Include these walks in the “Walking Cards” to avoid duplication. Remember to take camera for photo opportunities (asking participants for permission before any photos are taken). Possible Concerns or questions: • Physical ability – people need to be able to achieve at least the bronze award regardless of ability to encourage motivation and participation • These can be combined with footpath surveys? Again this could avoid duplication and encourage participation • The number of walks needed to complete all 3 awards – This can be changed to reflect the number of possible walks within any area the project is running • There is a need to link with other projects or schemes running in the designated areas to avoid conflict and duplication Poissible routes for progression: • Beyond the 15(+ /- dependant on decision of project team) walks completed to gain the “Gold Footsteps award” other mapped walks around the county can be included in a “Munros” type competition / challenge (include sections of much longer walks). Communities involved could publish their own section to promote the work being carried out to maintain and open footpaths • Separate walks via themes / types e.g. Industrial past, Waterfalls and waterways and Parks, Grottoʼs and hermits • Promote walking between communities/ urban centres • Further to existing work map walks to bus routes • Link to developments in Geocaching (and mapped geocaches within your area) • Those participants that are keen could be encouraged to become “walking ambassadors / champions” within the community and encourage others to become involved in the project 42 JH/March 2010

Communities on Foot Footsteps Award Bronze

The Ramblersʼ Association is a registered charity (England & Wales no 1093577, Scotland no SC039799) and a company limited by guarantee, registered in England & Wales (no 4458492).Registered office: 2nd floor, Camelford House, 87-90 Albert Embankment, London SE1 7TW JH/March 2010

How much walking does it take... Footsteps Award To burn off the calories of a: Cyngor Cefn Gwlad Cymru Bronze Countryside Council for Wales • Pizza ...... Stamp 180 minutes Walk 1 ...... • 6 Chicken Nuggets ...... 60 minutes

...... Stamp • Chocolate Doughnut Walk 2 ...... 59 minutes ...... • McDonalds Egg McMuffin 75 minutes ...... Stamp ...... • Burger King Original Whopper with Cheese Walk 3 ...... 192 ½ minutes ...... • Large Ice-cream Cone ...... Stamp 68 minutes Walk 4 ...... *Based on 3mph/ weight of 10½ stone - ...... 4 calories / min

...... Stamp If you weigh more you will burn more calories and ...... if you weigh less you will burn less calories. Walk 5 ...... JH/March 2010

Ramblers Cymru Certificate of Achievement Footsteps Bronze Award This certificate is awarded to

Signature Date

Signature Date JH/March 2010

Communities on Foot Footsteps Award Silver

The health benefits of walking... Footsteps Award How many minutes? Cyngor Cefn Gwlad Cymru Silver Countryside Council for Wales • 75 per week Stamp Most adults need 2½ hours of moderate ...... exercise per week. If you are fit then you need Walk 1 ...... just 75 minutes of hiking uphill for the same ...... benefits ......

• 90 per week ...... Stamp Women who walk 90 minutes a week have Walk 2 ...... better brain function and less decline than those ...... who walk less than 40 minutes per week ......

• 150 per week ...... Stamp Dodge diabetes - 150 minutes a week and losing Walk 3 ...... 7% of your body weight can reduce the risk of ...... developing type 2 diabetes by 58% ......

• 180 per week ...... Stamp Walking briskly for at least 3 hours/week = same Walk 4 ...... protection against Heart Disease as those ...... exercising vigorously for 90 minutes ......

• 420 per week ...... Stamp Women who exercise for 60 minutes a day (and Walk 5 ...... ate 1500 calories) lost about 30lbs and kept the ...... weight off ......

Source: Country Walking magazine / Jointace. JH/March 2010

Ramblers Cymru Certificate of Achievement Footsteps Silver Award This certificate is awarded to

Signature Date

Signature Date JH/March 2010

Communities on Foot Footsteps Award Gold

How to plan walks yourself... Footsteps Award

Cyngor Cefn Gwlad Cymru 1. Think about who will be walking with you - Gold Countryside Council for Wales level of fitness, any health problems and time commitments...... Stamp Walk 1 ...... 2. Plan the route - think about points of interest ...... and any stories linked to the route......

Stamp • Include escape points / alternatives in case ...... of bad weather, ill health or unexpected Walk 2 ...... hazards ...... • Also decide if the route is circular or involves repeating part or all of the walk. It may be ...... Stamp possible in some areas to connect with Walk 3 ...... public transport to avoid this ...... • It may be nice to include a stop at a pub or

cafe ...... Stamp ...... 3. Walk the entire route a few days before - Walk 4 ...... make a note of any potential hazards (rough ...... ground / roads/ mud etc.)

Stamp 4. Be early on the day of the walk, discreetly ...... check footwear to make sure itʼs suitable for Walk 5 ...... the route...... 5. Enjoy the walk! JH/March 2010

Ramblers Cymru Certificate of Achievement Footsteps Gold Award This certificate is awarded to

Signature Date

Signature Date JH/March 2010

Risk Assessment Form Walk Title: Leader: Date of Walk: Seconder: Length of Walk (miles): Classification: Identify the hazard i.e. Location of hazard Evaluate and decide what further action is rough ground, river crossing, needed i.e. change route, warn participants, etc. cliff face, exposed stone, etc. 52

Traffic Hazards:

Weather: make a note of the weather forecast the day before and of prevailing weather characteristics for locality Sunrise. Sunset times for day of walk Health and Fitness of participants - any known problems should be noted here: Additional Information (including useful telephone numbers for local police station, back markers moile, etc. JH/March 2010 Walk Leaderʼs Checklist

Date of Walk: Before the Walk Choose the Route area, length/timing, circular/linear, consider Location of Walk: • terrain/elevation/ascemt/season/strength of party • from map or guidebook or combination, research points of interest • transport options, check timings, lunch options, rest stops, bad weather alternatives/ escape routes • write route card

Recce (preferably with backmarker) • walk full route, note critical navigation points and bearings, assess risks, adjust route/ escape routes if necessary, check timings, check rest and toilet stops • describe in Group programme, following its usual format

The day before • check and assess weather forecast, review alternative routes if necessary • check personal gear and first aid kit • check public transport, warn pub

For more information contact the Lead Walks Team [email protected] 020 7339 8500

www.ramblers.org.uk 53 JH/March 2010 No. attending walk: On the day - at the start • be early, be welcoming, especially to newcomers • check fitness and equipment of party, identify anyone with special needs Weather: • appoint a backmarker • look after people new to the Group, give membership joining details to non-members • advise dog owners of Group policy • introduction: welcome, yourself, walk details, points of special interest, refreshment and rest stops, estimated return time • count party, note numbers and signal the start

Time started: On the day - the walk • stay at or near the front, check often that you can see your backmarker • set a reasonable place, watch for stragglers • concentrate on navigation, check timing against route card • manage: flow of party/regrouping/passage past gates and stiles/impact on countryside/rest stops

Time finished: At the end of the walk • check everyone has returned and can get home • report any incidents and obstructions to Group officers

Please remember to send out membership forms to those who are not yet Ramblers members. To request forms call 020 7339 8500. Ramblersʼ Association: 020 7339 8500 Ramblersʼ Wales: 029 2064 4308 www.ramblers.org.uk Ramblersʼ Scotland: [email protected] 01557 861222 54 JH/March 2010

Footpath Guardians Once you have the first part of the Communities on Foot project up and running you might want to engage some of the participants or other members of the community in activities linked to the maintenance of footpaths. These will be local people that are interested in both walking in their area and helping to maintain the network of footpaths in their community. As part of the “Communities on Foot” project, following the footpath survey the “Footpath Guardians” will monitor a designated section of a local footpath (for example 100 or 200 yards) on a regular basis and report any issues to the project team / local ROW officer or T&CC as appropriate.

Footpath Surveys • Use volunteers attracted from the initial meetings / walks to help conduct the survey(s) • Develop the capacity of these volunteers and build them into “Footpath Guardians” for nominated lengths of local footpaths (about 100 yrds) • All forms that they use must be straightforward and self explanatory • What data is to be gathered? • Types of footpaths in an area e.g. Paved, track, hill/ scree, woodland • Quality of signage • Quality of footpath(s) – accessibility. Include stiles / kissing gates etc • Sights of interest? • How is this data to be collected? • Written answers (from observation) • Photographic evidence • Background data (Council, local walkers etc.) • Survey timeline • Write survey and plan footpaths to be included (clearly identify exact lengths / sections) • Train volunteers (short session) • Survey local footpaths (1 week to complete) – will they need to be supervised / accompanied on e.g. give volunteers timeframe or 1 group session per area? • Collect data and analyses of results / data gathered (within 1 week) • Devise next steps (with volunteers?) • Disseminate feedback, results and next steps • 2-3 weeks for whole survey 55 JH/March 2010

Footpath survey “Ease of use” Guidance Notes Rights of way appear on the definitive map of public Rights of Way for the local authority area.

Exclude: • A public Right of Way wholly within a built up area with a hard surface provided along its complete length and a clearly defined route

ʻEasy to useʼ means: • Signposted or way marked where they leave the road to the extent necessary to allow users to follow the right of way, in accordance with the authorityʼs duty under s.27 of the Countryside Act 1968 • Free from unlawful obstructions or other interference (including overhanging vegetation) to the publicʼs right of passage • The surface and furniture (e.g. stiles, gates) are in good repair and to a standard necessary to enable the public to use the way without undue inconvenience

Rights of Way with unlawful barriers should not be assessed as easy to use. Unlawful barriersʼ includes any furniture (e.g. stiles and gates) that is newly erected without the permission of the local authority. Rights of Way should be easy to use by the category of user entitled to use the path (e.g. footpaths should be useable by walkers, bridleways by horse riders). [Surveys to assess “easy to use” should use the methodology developed by the Countryside Agency and CSS as a benchmark standard, which is based on a minimum 5% random sample of lengths of whole Rights of Way. Calculation Numerator: The total length of Rights of Way surveyed that are easy to use by members of the public (km) Denominator: The total length of Rights of Way surveyed (km) Formula: Numerator x 100 Denominator Example: Footpath survey. 5 footpaths surveyed that are easy to use covering a length of 12km 5 /12 = 0.417 X 100 = 41.7

56 JH/March 2010

Public Rights of Way Survey Form Name of Surveyor ......

Date of Survey ......

Route No...... / ......

Status Footpath /Bridleway /Byway /Restricted Byway (delete as appropriate)

Question Response

At start of link - Grid Reference ...... Mark on plan “S” at Start

Signage Please tick the applicable response

1a Does the link start at a metalled road? Yes K No K 1b If Yes, is there a fingerpost for this link? Yes K No K 1c If present, is the fingerpost in reasonable condition? Yes K No K 1d Is the start of the link way marked? Yes K No K

Along the Link - Ease of use Following the path

Please mark the position of all furniture on the route on the attached plan and note below what the type of furniture is

1. Stile ...... 2. Footbridge ...... 3. Kissing gate ...... 4. Gate ...... 5. Other please specify ...... 6 ......

57 JH/March 2010

Public Rights of Way Survey Form cont.

Is the route way marked? Partly Yes K No K 2a. If Yes or Partly, are the correct way markers used? Yes K No K (i.e. Yellow-Footpath / Blue-Bridleway / Plum- Restricted Byways, Red-BOATʼs) 2c. Is the route easy to follow without a map? Yes K No K 2d. Is the route easy to follow with a map? Yes K No K 2e. Does the route generally follow the alignment shown on the map Yes K No K Hazards / Obstacles 3a Are there any obstacles making the route impassable? Yes K No K 3b If Yes, please mark the position on the attached plan and give details. (e.g locked gate, overgrowth etc)

7 ...... 8 ...... 9 ...... 3c Are any of the stiles, gates, bridges, steps in a poor (P) or unusable (U) or dangerous (D) condition? Yes K No K 3d If Yes, please mark the position on plan and give details

10 ...... (P/U/D) 11 ...... (P/U/D) 12 ...... (P/U/D) Surface 4a Is the surface of the route poor (P), unusable (U) or dangerous (D)? Yes K No K 4b If Yes, please mark the section on the attached plan and state type of surface

58 JH/March 2010

Public Rights of Way Survey Form cont.

13 ...... (P/U/D) 14 ...... (P/U/D)

At end of link - Grid Reference ...... Mark on plan “E” at Start Signage 5a Does the link end at a metalled road? Yes K No K 5b If Yes, is there a fingerpost for this link? Yes K No K 5c If present, is the fingerpost in reasonable condition? Yes K No K 5d Is the end of the link way marked? Yes K No K

Any other (Please use additional sheet of paper if necessary)

...... Thank you for taking part in this condition survey

59 JH/March 2010

Acknowledgements The success of this project and the development of this toolkit wouldnʼt have been possible without the help and support of the following organisations and individuals.

Ceri Daugherty Countryside Council for Wales Clive Williams Neath Port Talbot County Borough Council Angeline Spooner-Cleverly Communities First Neath Port Talbot Council Cllr. Arthur Davies One Voice Wales Nadia Bogdan Upper Afan Forum Leigh Acteson Glyncorrwg Ponds Co-op Barry Cosker, Sandra Davies and Cllr. Hugh James Briton Ferry Town Council Hilary Griffiths & Zoe Rees Briton Ferry West Communities First Lousie Jardine Head Teacher Llansawel Primary School Pelenna Community Council

Cyngor Cefn Gwlad Cymru Countryside Council for Wales