HIGH LANE U3A WALKING GROUP
GUIDANCE FOR WALK LEADERS
When devising a walking route, aim to avoid potential problems for
members of our group, bearing in mind their age and varied mobility.
Walks should normally keep to no more than 5/6 miles. Try to give an
indication of any prolonged climbing involved, and any rough or slippy
places, or awkward stiles which might be encountered. With desirable
scenic routes it is often difficult to avoid all hazards. Decide what
time to meet, and whether walkers should bring a packed lunch, or
whether there will be a pub meal.
If stopping for a pub meal, the walk may well need to be shorter, since
meals are usually served only 'till 2/2:30. Meal walks are often popular,
so you may need to check with the pub, and warn them of the likely
numbers.
Let the group leader, and the walkers intending to come on the walk,
know what the walk will be like, and whether it will pose difficulties
for some of the group. Be prepared to warn off walkers, if you feel it
may not be suitable for them. Well behaved dogs and children may come
with us, but only if you and other walkers are happy with the
arrangement, also bearing in mind meal or pub stops.
When meeting at the village hall, make sure walkers are U3A
members, are aware of the walking risks document, and are aware of the
nature of the walk and any potential hazards. Give directions for the
car drivers to the walk start point. Take a count of the numbers in the
party at the start of the walk..
Keep a reasonable pace, so that slower members are not left behind, and
if necessary brief someone with the proposed route, to stay at the rear
and make sure there are no unseen problems. Mobile phones would be an
excellent way of keeping in contact with the rear marker, and of
calling for emergency help if it were needed. But a whistle and
compass are always useful to carry, plus some simple first aid supplies
if you have any. Be prepared to be flexible, if the weather or ground
conditions should deteriorate, and shorten the walk if necessary. From
time to time, take a tally of the numbers and check that there are no
walkers with problems. Report any injury accidents to the group leader,
with details.
Walter Mason December 2007