Walk and Talk: Celebrating a Year of Lottery-Funded Impact

29th September 2025

Carers Support is celebrating a successful year of Lottery-funded delivery for its long-running Walk and Talk service — a programme that continues to offer carers across Bristol and South Gloucestershire a chance to take a break, connect with others, and enjoy the benefits of walking in nature. 

While Walk and Talk has been running for several years, this latest phase — supported by The National Lottery Community Fund — enabled us to expand our reach, deepen our partnerships, and strengthen our inclusive approach. Over the past year, we supported 134 carers and 15 dependants, including young adult carers, LGBTQI+ carers, and carers from underrepresented communities. 

Key highlights include: 

• 11 walking groups and 6 taster sessions delivered across the region
• New partnerships with organisations such as Circadian Trust, UWE Cares, Somali Kitchen, and Forest of Avon Trust  
• A focus on inclusion and accessibility, with 30% of participants from ethnically diverse backgrounds and nearly 10% identifying as LGBTQI+  
• Positive wellbeing outcomes, with carers reporting reduced isolation, improved confidence, and greater access to support  
• Recognition from Carers Active UK, who praised the programme as a national example of best practice 

The full Year 1 report has been submitted to funders and will help shape the next phase of the service. As we look ahead, we remain committed to building on this success — creating more opportunities for carers to take a break, feel connected, and access the support they need. 

Find out more about Walk and Talk and how to join in