News

Congratulations to Jeanie Blackall who has won the Active Devon Volunteer Award for the North Devon District and Torridge area. Jeanie came up with the idea of starting a walking group for people who had lost their life partners and mentioned this to our Coast Path Connectors Project Officer Huw who thought it was wonderful and provided advice and support to help set up the group. From this meeting and from Jeanie’s hard work Healing Steps was formed.

Left to right: Hannah Shackleton (Active Devon Local Partnerships Manager for North Devon and Torridge), Huw Davies (Coast Path Connectors Project Officer for North Devon), Jeanie Blackall (Founder of Healing Steps and CPC Volunteer Walk Leader), and Tom Mack (Active Devon Partnerships Manager).

Jeanie explained ‘Losing your life partner can be a very isolating experience. After my husband died I found getting out in nature for a walk really helped my wellbeing, both physically and emotionally. But I lacked company. So I started Healing Steps Group to get some gentle exercise and be with other women and men who have also lost their loved one. Our walks provide an opportunity for us to spend time in nature with those who understand. It doesn’t matter who we are or how we feel - tears, laughter, silence and chatting - all is embraced in our friendly group. It’s been a lifesaver for me as it has given me a focus, new friendships, as well as all the benefits of getting out and walking in nature. A huge thank you to the SWCPA Coast Path Connectors team for the support they have given me in getting Healing Steps up and walking.’

The standard of nominations received for the Active Devon award was very high, but we are in no doubt why Jeanie won as her energy and enthusiasm for helping people through the Healing Steps walking group always shines through!