NEIGHBOURS ARE DOING IT FOR THEMSELVES

The Croxteth walking group is part of the trailblazing Our Croxteth programme which aims to improve the health and resilience of communities by giving them control and support to develop ideas in their neighbourhood.

Local groups and residents were invited to pitch their good ideas for a share of £50,000 funding from Mersey Care, Merseyside Police, Liverpool City Council and Cobalt Housing. Successful bids were chosen by a panel that included a community working group.

Mersey Care’s Associate Director Strategic Partnerships Pat McGuinness said: “People who live and work in this community know far better than us what they need. It’s been dynamic from the word go; it really is managed from the bottom up. The sense of pride and determination is palpable and powerful. They have our word that we’ll support them but they’re doing it for themselves.”

For more information contact Pat McGuinness: pat.mcguinness@merseycare.nhs.uk

As our group, including three newcomers, sets off at a moderate pace, Paul ensures there’s someone at the front, middle and rear, so nobody is left behind. Marshalls include two registered nurses. Chef, Ronnie (pictured) who acts as marshall on our walk, moved to Croxteth from South Liverpool, and is using the walk to get to know his new neighbourhood.

It’s like a flash dance as people join the chattering throng along leafy paths. An hour later they’re sitting under the arches of the café, drinking tea and sharing stories.

There’s a sense that everyone knows they’re among friends – even those who just a few hours ago were strangers.

The walk has spun friendships that even organiser Paul couldn’t have envisaged.

Start Walking

Walking for Health: Free short walks to encourage people to get active at their own pace. Walks range from 30 to 90 minutes. nhs.uk

Ramblers offers easy access walks suitable for people with mobility issues and those pushing wheelchairs and pushchairs, to ‘technical’, which may require scrambling and ropes. Your first three walks are free, afterwards there’s a membership charge with concessions. ramblers.org.uk

Richie the ranger: Easy guided walks in Merseyside led by former Liverpool park ranger Richie Baker cost £2.50 per person. Some are bookable, for most just turn up on the day. Contact: 07850 239411 or email: richietheranger@gmail.com

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