Walking For Health And Connection
Our Friday Walks with Sport England
Every Friday from 10:30 , a lively group gathers at Northward Housing, M9 6NZ. With water bottles filled and smiles ready, we set out on one of North Manchester’s beautiful green routes, Bogart Hole Clough, Heaton Park, Plant Hill Park or Broadhurst Clough.
These free Walk for Health sessions, proudly funded by Sport England, began as a simple idea: help people stay active and ease loneliness. But they’ve quickly become so much more.
“The walk is the highlight of my week,” shares one participant. “It gives me energy, clears my mind, and I’ve made friends I now chat with every day.”
More than exercise
Walking is gentle yet powerful. It boosts heart health, strengthens muscles, and supports mental wellbeing. But the hidden strength of these sessions is community. Participants laugh, share stories and swap tips about everything from cooking to caring for grandchildren.
Many of our walkers are widows or older adults who’ve experienced isolation. Coming together outdoors helps rebuild confidence and reminds everyone they belong.
Extra touches that matter
The Widows Empowerment Trust provides walking poles, snacks, water, and drawstring bags so nobody worries about equipment or cost. Routes are carefully chosen to be scenic and accessible, and the pace is friendly, no one is left behind.
Building lasting impact
Funded by Sport England, the project aligns with the national goal of helping people get active in ways that fit their lives. Already, participants report lower stress, improved fitness, and new friendships. Some have even taken the lead in mapping future routes, ensuring the walks remain community-owned.
“I came for the health benefits,” another walker told us, “but I stayed for the friendships and laughter.”
Our vision is that these walks continue to grow, bringing more people into a circle of health, friendship and hope.
Contact us if you want to join. Or call us 07479916948
Skills Development Workshop
Skills Development Workshop – Building Confidence for Work and Life Skills Development Workshop – Building Confidence for Work and Life
Alongside our outdoor wellbeing activities, Widows Empowerment Trust runs a free Skills Development Workshop every Friday, 12–2 pm, also at Northward Housing, M9 6NZ.
This workshop is designed for bereaved spouses and others due to bereavement on low income, especially individuals who want to refresh their skills, return to work, or simply feel more confident with technology.
Practical, empowering learning
Each week, participants learn through step-by-step, friendly sessions covering:
· Computer & Digital Literacy – from using a mouse to sending emails.
· CV Writing & Job Search – creating strong CVs and finding opportunities online.
· Video Calls & Online Interviews – using Zoom, Teams, and presenting confidently.
· Microsoft Office & Canva – Word, Excel, PowerPoint and simple design tools.
· Digital Finance & Budgeting – staying safe with online banking and apps.
· Entrepreneurship & Personal Development – exploring small business or freelance ideas.
Refreshments are provided, and no question is too small.
Real impact on lives
Many participants begin unsure of their abilities. After a few weeks, they’re emailing confidently, creating smart CVs, or even applying for jobs and volunteering roles. Some have started side projects like online craft shops and community blogs.
“I never thought I could do a Zoom interview,” said one attendee. “Now I’m ready for anything.”
Supported by community partners
With Dowager Countess and VoiceScape supporting our charity’s wider work, the Skills Development Workshop reflects our mission to empower widows and older adults to rebuild independence and dignity.
Share the journey
Both projects, Friday Walks for Health and Skills Development Workshops, show how practical, community-driven ideas can change lives.
Together, they tackle isolation, improve wellbeing, and open doors to new opportunities.
Interested in joining or partnering with us?
Email info@widowsempowerment.com or call 07479 916 948.
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