#RWT RunWalkTalk

Bringing People Together Through Movement: The First #RWT Event in Amber Valley

On 2 October, Jog Derbyshire, working closely with a wide network of local partners hosted the first event in a refreshed series of #RunWalkTalk gatherings at Shipley Park in Amber Valley. This marked the beginning of a two‑year journey to bring the initiative to every district in Derbyshire, strengthening connections between organisations and creating more opportunities for people to be active within their own communities. The key idea being, that we can build something bigger and better together.

Organisations who attended included: Jog Derbyshire, Peak Running, Walk Derbyshire, Amber Valley CVS, Move More Amber Valley, Active Derbyshire, Amber Valley Walking Together, SEN-FIT CIC, Belper Running Club, Alfreton Jog Club, Walks 4 Wellbeing, Sofa2Stroll, Futures Housing Group, Get Out, Get Active Amber Valley, Amber Valley Borough Council, Mentall, Amber Valley Ambles, Derbyshire Wildlife Trust, Derbyshire Time Swap, British Nordic Walking, Infinite Wellbeing and Spectrum Housing.

The concept of these events is simple: create a safe, welcoming space where absolutely anyone, people with or without mental or physical health challenges, runners and non‑runners, staff, patients and the wider public can come together. By removing the barriers that often keep groups apart, the events aim to create genuine connection and shared experience.

To make this happen, months of relationship‑building took place before the day itself. Partners spent time understanding each other’s work, broadening their reach and strengthening trust within the local community. Attendance relied heavily on these relationships; each partner brought with them their own networks, creating a ripple effect that enabled more people to access the event and enjoy being active outdoors in nature.

Many of the organisations involved had never met before. But, thanks to the groundwork laid beforehand, a mutual understanding of the ‘why?’ and a shared sense of purpose, everyone came together seamlessly as one team to make the event a success.

A safe and inclusive space

Participants could choose from an accessible walk, a run/walk or a run, the activities, each led and supported by local volunteer leaders, were chosen to encourage comfortable conversation as people moved side by side in a way that works for them. Many commented on how much easier it felt to talk while walking or running, without the pressure of making eye contact.

The range of activities meant there was truly something for everyone. We spoke with members of the accessible walk group, many of whom were attending an event like this for the first time. Several shared that illness or disability had made it difficult to stay active, but they had decided to give getting outside another try.

Guided by a local wildlife expert, the group explored Shipley Park at a gentle pace, noticing details in nature that are often overlooked. Participants spoke about how “nature makes all the difference” when it comes to being active, and how the relaxed, inclusive atmosphere gave them the confidence to get moving again. A recurring theme was the positive impact on both mental and physical wellbeing, and the surprise many felt at discovering they could take part in something they once believed “wasn’t for someone like me.” It was a powerful reminder that with the right support, everyone can achieve more than they think.

As all groups returned, there was a chance to enjoy tea, coffee and cake and to continue the conversations that began out on the route. Refreshments were kindly provided and served by the alternative provision students from Infinite Wellbeing in the park’s community room.

While some relaxed with a cuppa, others took the opportunity to try Nordic Walking for the first time out on the field, another way to explore movement in a supportive environment.

Connecting people with services

Throughout the event, participants could chat with local services offering everything from mental health support to walking groups, jogging clubs, wellbeing activities and hobbies. Organisations with a shared commitment to improving community health met for the first time, learned about each other’s work and began exploring ways to collaborate in the future. New relationships were formed, ideas were shared and plans were made to combine resources for even greater impact.

Plans for #RunWalkTalk 2026 are already underway – next stop North East Derbyshire!