It’s paradise for me, that’s all I can say.

Jumana, from Iraq, on walking in the Cairngorms.

Most participants are new to walking and to Scotland, so it’s often the first time they’ll learn how the public can explore nearly all our countryside, provided we do so responsibly.

But while Scotland has incredible landscapes and world-class access rights, many still feel the outdoors is not for them, whether due to lack of transport, knowledge or feeling they don’t belong.

Clearly, that’s not okay. Scotland’s outdoors must feel like a space for everybody. Our Community Outreach Project focuses on equipping people with entry-level walking skills in a welcoming, fun and safe environment.

A ripple effect

We’re proud to have walked with hundreds of people, but there’s a limit to how many our staff can support directly.

So, we now run a Community Champions scheme, equipping enthusiastic participants with practical skills to set up walks in their communities.

They learn everything from route-planning and navigation to gaining their Outdoor First Aid Certificates, and work towards Lowland Leader qualifications.

We aim to create a ripple effect that inspires others to step out into nature.

Our Cairngorms visit

While we normally walk near people’s doorsteps, we recently took a two-day trip to the Cairngorms with our current and graduate Community Champions. What a backdrop to celebrate how far they’ve come and put their skills to the test.

After walking from our base at Cairngorm Lodge Youth Hostel to Lochan Dubh south of Rothiemurchus forest, Community Champion Nataliia, from Ukraine, looked north over sun-kissed Scots Pines and shook her head, repeating “unbelievable…unbelievable”. And Jumana, from Iraq, said: “It’s difficult to express, it’s wonderful, I think it’s paradise for me, that’s all I can say.”

The joyful weekend left everyone feeling inspired and uplifted, but also offered time to reflect. For some, the sense of connection meant something more – especially for Nataliia, from Ukraine.

“A lot of people, especially Ukrainians, they’re lost. They need something to help them, for a short period of time, just to forget what’s going on in their native land.”

Nataliia spoke about how important it was not only to feel welcome, but to be able to give something back to her community, to other refugees, and to her new home.

Building momentum

As we made our way home, it was great to hear from the Champions about their hopes for the months ahead. It was clear they’re looking forward to completing their qualification in March and leading more walks in their own communities.

Jumana said: “I think we all face some difficulties in our lives, some challenges. It's easy to get stuck in those difficulties. But I believe that going for walks and exploring nature can have a powerful healing effect on minds and bodies.”

And another Community Champion, Polly, said: “I wanted to join this scheme so those who are interested in walking, we can walk together. By connecting them to nature, I can also help them to have some unforgettable memories.”

Our Champions now have the chance to continue their journey with the Ramblers as a Community Outreach Trainee, strengthening their leadership skills and supporting a more inclusive outdoor community.

Get involved

We love pairing up with partners to make this work happen and are indebted to friends at charities such as SCORE Scotland and The Welcoming.

If you support refugees, asylum seekers and people from Global Majority communities and fancy bringing walking to you, get in touch: [email protected]