Health & Fitness

The Heart Beat Health Weekly Walks scheme was set up in East Cambs during the closing months of 2002, this task being visited upon the staff of the local NHS smoking cessation clinics in East Cambs. The scheme was launched on 14th February 2003 with the walk at Littleport, which, for the first year served as a pilot operation. Walks at Soham, Ely, Burwell, Haddenham and Sutton were added during April 2004. Apart from Haddenham, all these walks have run continuously since then, and it is estimated that during this time about 4000 people have enrolled to walk. Some of those who enrolled initially still attend regularly, and two of the original walk leaders still lead walks ! Each week, on average, a total of 85 walkers attend for one walk or more, and it can be considered that 250 could be called “regular walkers”.

Conduct of the Walks:

Where possible, each walk will be supervised by a minimum of two trained leaders, who will carry identity badges. One walk leader will lead the way and the other will be at the back of the group during the walk. The leaders assume responsibility for your care for the duration of the walk, and you are advised to follow their directives when given. However, you will be expected to observe all normal personal precautions and care. You may leave the walk at any time that you wish but please make sure that a walk leader is advised of your intention. It is strongly advised that you carry with you contact details of persons to be contacted on your behalf in case of emergency. If you are unfortunate enough to have a medical condition which might need emergency attention (e.g. asthma, epilepsy, allergy ), it is wise to carry with you the appropriate medicine. Walk leaders are first-aid trained and will ensure that you receive any necessary treatment, but it will help them if they are aware of your problems at the time of enrolment on the walks.

A laminated identity card with suitable details can be provided for you to carry with you, and, should you wish, can include a small photo to certify your identity. It is good practice to carry with you such details at all times wherever you are.