Walking Post podcast 47: Walking For All

Walking for All is a community led-walking programme in Northern Ireland and the border counties of the Republic of Ireland, led by Outscape.

Rooted in early intervention, prevention, and community capacity building, Walking for All responds directly to strong evidence showing that led Walking for All is intended to help people of all ages and abilities enjoy short, regular walks in local spaces, as well as to increase physical activity, improve mental wellbeing, reduce isolation, and deepen people’s connection with their local natural environment.

In 2025, Outscape was awarded €7.5m from PEACEPLUS, a programme managed by the Special EU Programmes Body, to set up and coordinate Walking for All. The programme will engage more than 14,000 people in walks delivered across rural areas of Northern Ireland and the border counties of Ireland.

Sixteen dedicated Walking for All Officers work across each council/county area to recruit, train and support Walk Leaders. These Walk Leaders support the establishment of walking groups, engaging thousands of people to take part in the walks.

Our guests on the podcast this week are Gareth Moore, head of participation at Outscape, and Gráinne O’Brien, Walking for All Officer for Louth. To get in touch with the podcast with comments, guest ideas, or for advertising/sponsorship opportunities, email us at jim@walkingpost.com