During Volunteers Week (2-8 June), Livewell is celebrating its diverse team of volunteers who play a vital role in enhancing the well-being of Derby residents. Those who have completed the service’s weight management programme are giving back by sharing their experiences and motivating newcomers to adopt healthier lifestyles.
Volunteers also lead the service’s free group walks in Derby, which are open to everyone and run in partnership with The Ramblers. These walks are guided by local residents who are enthusiastic about walking, exploring their communities, and providing social connections for those who may feel lonely or isolated.
Paul McGinty, Livewell Coordinator, oversees the volunteers and stated:
“Individuals who have participated in the Livewell programme understand the challenges of improving health, fitness, and lifestyle. They are well-equipped to assist new clients facing similar obstacles. Volunteering offers a chance to develop new skills, meet people, and gain valuable experience. We encourage more clients and those interested in becoming walk leaders to join us.”
We spoke with two Livewell clients who support various sessions and one of the service’s longest serving walk leaders:
Tracey Knight (62) from Spondon completed her own 12-month Livewell weight management programme in December 2024. She shared her thoughts on the programme and becoming a volunteer:
“Livewell was a brilliant experience for me, and I am excited to now be a volunteer for the programme. I love that we, as clients, are all different ages, abilities, and backgrounds. The sessions are completely inclusive and always fun! There is so much on offer through the programme—I have learned a lot and am fitter, healthier, and happier. I am now keen to help others enjoy it and get the most out of their 12 months on Livewell by supporting the 10-week induction programmes at Alvaston and some of the exercise classes.”
Busy mother of five, Natalie Hagerty from Allestree, has transformed her life from struggling with arthritic pain to becoming healthier and active thanks to Livewell’s weight management programme. Natalie aims to offer the same encouragement and support that she received.
“I want to inspire people to improve their health and lifestyles. I hope to show them that even with a busy life as a mum with disabled children, if I can do it, they can too, with some time management. It’s wonderful to engage with clients and provide support, even just by sharing how I completed my year with Livewell and what I’m doing to maintain consistency in achieving my goals.”
Sandra Ward (66) has been guiding the Mickleover walk for almost a decade. Her friendly demeanour has played a key role in growing the group to more than 50 regular participants with 93 different people attending this year alone. They enjoy not only the chance to engage in outdoor activities but also the social aspect, which includes sharing a cup of tea together at the end.
“I’ve been leading walks for over nine years now and I love seeing everyone on Monday mornings. I see new friendships being made and their smiles mean everything to me.”
Interested individuals can explore walk leader opportunities, open to everyone, while other roles are exclusive to current and former Livewell clients. For more information (no previous volunteering experience needed), contact [email protected]
