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Becoming a walk leader
A full walks programme depends on sufficient members volunteering to lead walks and we always welcome new walk leaders. If you are hesitant about volunteering don't worry, there is plenty of support available. When you first volunteer you will be sent a list of meeting places and grid references which other leaders have used, together with a 'Walk Leader's Checklist'.
A hady list of tips to help walk leaders run safe and enjoyable walks. It's durable and waterproof, just right for carrying on walks. You can also get a copy by sending a request via volunteersupport@ramblers.zendesk.com.
Find a route - from maps, books or the Ramblers Website, Ramblers Routes. Walk routes need not be new: your favourite local walk will be fine and in addition our Walks Organiser Jasmine List (01297 552313) has a number of walks available to get you started. You can always ask Jasmine or the Programme co-ordinator Alan Kimbell (01404 45944) or any member of the committee if you need any help planning, measuring or recceing a walk.
To assist new leaders and as a refresher to existing leaders, we run from time to time 'Map and Compass' and 'Leader Training' sessions. All very informal and fun; a good way to learn the basics, get advice and pick up some tips. Keep an eye on either the printed programme or look online Social Events and Activities.
Walk Leaders Events
Thanks to the East Devon Ramblers who attended the Walks Leaders event in July 2019. As a follow-up we have produced a hand-out covering many of the concerns raised titled 'Tips for Walk Leaders'. You can download a copy here.
Insurance essentials
Ramblers recommend that all new leaders should be familiar with the basic terms of the insurance cover which you can view in the Ramblers Toolkit or follow link for Walk Leader Insurance Factsheet.
For information on planning and leading a COVID-safe walk, please take a look in the Ramblers Volunteer Zone: Coronavirus advice. Here you can find the latest guidance and Activity guides, including the essential Risk Assessment form, for taking part in and leading a walk in a COVID secure way.
Planning the walk
It's best to start planning the walk as soon as possible. Our programmes last for four months and you need to send in your walk details at least two months before the start of the new programme, so you will often need to be planning walks six months or more before you are due to lead them, and at a different season of the year.
Things to consider:
Before the walk
Publishing the walk
Leader(s) - Leader's Contact Telephone - Walk Start Point - OS Map Grid Reference - Parking Charge (yes/no) - Brief Description - Description of Route - Date - Day - Start Time - Distance in Miles - Walk Grade - Dogs (on lead/assistance dogs only) - Picnic Required
For guidance on Dogs see Walking with Dogs Assistance dogs must be allowed on every EDR walk, except where the route is unsuitable, e.g. because you are walking where dogs are banned. If this is the case please add "please contact the walk leader in advance to discuss your requirements" to your walk details on the chit.
For help with OS map grid reference see Grid Reference Finder.
For further information, please see Leading a Walk.
Friday 12 August 2022Starting at 10:00A leisurely 4.5 mile / 7.2 km walk
Friday 12 August 2022Starting at 10:00A moderate 5.5 mile / 8.9 km walk
Sunday 14 August 2022Starting at 10:30A leisurely 5.5 mile / 8.9 km walk
Sunday 14 August 2022Starting at 10:30A leisurely 8 mile / 12.9 km walk
Wednesday 17 August 2022Starting at 10:30A moderate 11 mile / 17.7 km walk
Wednesday 17 August 2022Starting at 10:30A moderate 6.5 mile / 10.5 km walk