{"id":794471,"date":"2026-02-28T09:50:17","date_gmt":"2026-02-28T09:50:17","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/794471\/"},"modified":"2026-02-28T09:50:17","modified_gmt":"2026-02-28T09:50:17","slug":"walking-for-all-programme-to-engage-over-14000-across-northern-ireland","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/794471\/","title":{"rendered":"Walking for All programme to engage over 14,000 across Northern Ireland"},"content":{"rendered":"

A brand-new ‘Walking for All’ programme, a significant cross-border initiative backed by PEACEPLUS, has been launched, aiming to get more than 14,000 people across NI and the border counties active and to help combat isolation and loneliness.<\/p>\n

The programme is designed to enhance health and well-being in rural communities by making walking more accessible, enjoyable, and social. Walking for All will offer short, regular walks<\/a> in local community spaces and is open to adults of all ages, backgrounds, or abilities.<\/p>\n

By promoting connection, inclusion, and well-being, Walking for All seeks to build sustainable, healthy communities and tackle issues such as social isolation, wellbeing and inactivity.<\/p>\n

The scheme managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB), and spearheaded by Outscape, was unveiled on Friday 27 February 2026 at The Junction, Dungannon<\/a>. With \u20ac7.5 million support from the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB), ‘Walking for All’ aims to involve over 14,000 individuals across rural areas in Northern Ireland and the border counties in accessible, guided walking activities.<\/p>\n

Outscape, in collaboration with 15 partner organisations across Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland, including 8 local authorities, Causeway Coast and Glens Heritage Trust and 6 Local Sports Partnerships, is delivering the programme. Associate partners include Mountaineering Ireland (Get Ireland Walking), Sport Ireland and the Public Health Agency.<\/p>\n

Sixteen dedicated Walking for All Officers have already been recruited to lead the programme and train Walk Leaders, supporting the creation of nearly 600 walking groups.<\/p>\n

Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs Minister Andrew Muir MLA expressed his delight at the funding provided under the PEACEPLUS programme to the Walking for All (WFA) project. He said: “I’m delighted that my Department, working in partnership with DRCDG and SEUPB, is providing funding under the PEACEPLUS programme to the Walking for All (WFA) project. WFA is not just about walking – it is about inspiring people to come together through shared, volunteer led experiences, strengthening bonds within our rural communities whilst enjoying the beauty of our countryside at its very best.<\/p>\n

“This project will create a lasting legacy of healthier, happier and more connected rural communities, demonstrating the remarkable impact of community-led initiatives to inspire long-term positive change and helping rural areas to thrive as places where people can live, work and prosper.”<\/p>\n

The announcement was also welcomed by the Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, Dara Calleary TD, and Minister of State with Responsibility for Community Development and Charities, Jerry Buttimer TD.<\/p>\n

Minister Calleary said: “I would like to express my gratitude to all those who contributed to the Walking for All initiative. I am pleased that my Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht will continue to support this outstanding project in collaboration with the Special EU Programmes Body and the Department of Agriculture, Environment, and Rural Affairs in Northern Ireland. The area will reap long-term benefits from this project”.<\/p>\n

Minister Buttimer added: “This significant funding will support social interaction, reduce isolation and encourage active lifestyles. The planned investment will enable communities to reach their full potential in terms of the economy, society, and environment.”<\/p>\n

Gina McIntyre, CEO of the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB), welcomed the announcement, stating: “Walking for All reflects the purpose of PEACEPLUS by creating opportunities for people to come together in ways that strengthen health, confidence, and connection. Many rural communities may not have easy access to sports facilities, and this programme offers a simple and inclusive way to address those challenges.<\/p>\n

“By providing trained support, accessible routes and a welcoming structure, it will help thousands of people build new routines and deepen their sense of belonging together. We are pleased to support an initiative that encourages shared enjoyment of the outdoors and contributes to long-term wellbeing across our region.”<\/p>\n

For further details on becoming a Walk Leader or to discover local walks, visit www.walkingforall.com<\/a><\/p>\n

Walking for All programme partners:<\/strong><\/p>\n