Salvation Army’s summer wellness walks in the Forest of Dean combat loneliness with community connection
published on 24 Jun 2025
On a quiet Saturday morning in the Forest of Dean, a small group sets off on a walk—not for fitness, but for connection.
Among them are a young father pushing a pushchair, a retired grandmother, and a local mechanic who’s just moved to town. Some chat easily; others, tentative at first, soon find themselves laughing over shared stories. By the time they pause for coffee, the barriers have faded. This is the heart of the Summer Wellness Walks, a new initiative co-organised by the Salvation Army and local churches to combat isolation—one step at a time.
Launching this summer and continuing year-round, the monthly walks invite people of all ages—from toddlers to seniors—to explore the Forest of Dean’s trails together. Co-organisers Jon Harris, Salvation Army Church Pioneer Leader, and Jane Penny, Community Family Minister, designed the programme to bridge gaps in the community.
Jane said, “These walks are for anyone who needs fresh air, a listening ear, or just to feel less alone. Bring your dog, your grandad, or just yourself. All you need is comfy shoes”
Following a successful pilot walk in May which saw 11 people take part – among them a baby less than a year-old and a 78-year-old granny, organisers have announced three walks starting with one on Saturday 28 June; followed by Saturday 26 July; and Saturday 23 August. Walks last approximately 90 minutes, with breaks for coffee and cake at local cafés or in a church building—covered by the organisers for those who can’t afford it.
The ecumenical project, supported by Churches Together in Lydney, is intentionally unchurchly: no preaching, no hymns, just hiking boots (or pushchairs), smiles and laughter - and a route to journey that is accessible to all.

Jane said, “we want people to enjoy nature without pressure. It’s about building relationships. One photo from our pilot shows three generations laughing together. That’s the goal. We’re reclaiming the oldest therapy: each other. Everyone’s welcome—and people can bring their dogs”
Jon Harris said, “During our pilot walk in May, one dad told me it was his first time joining in with something like this. By the end, he was planning to come back. We talked about work-life balance, the importance of family and just spent time chilling and walking. That’s why we do this. That’s the success—not numbers, but connections.”
The walks will rotate between woodlands, lakes, and sheltered routes seasonally, with autumn leaf-crunching and winter cosy café stops already planned.
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Summer: Lakeside and estuary routes
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Autumn: Leaf-crunching woodland trails
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Winter: Sheltered paths with hot chocolate stops
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Spring: Wildflower-lined walks
For more information, to register, or to support the initiative, contact Jon Harris or Jane Penny at cfmlydney@gmail.com; jon.harris@salvationarmy.org.uk.
The Salvation Army in the Forest of Dean, alongside dedicated community partners, works tirelessly to ensure no one faces hardship alone. Through practical initiatives like their weekly food bank, which provides essential groceries to families in need, and their community café offering warm meals and companionship, they address both hunger and isolation. Additionally, their support programs—such as debt advice services and emotional well-being drop-ins—help individuals navigate life's challenges with dignity.
By fostering partnerships with local charities, churches, and volunteers, The Salvation Army has created a network of care, ensuring everyone in the community has access to support, friendship, and practical help when they need it most. To learn more about the Salvation Army in Forest of Dean and their programmes and partnerships, visit their website: Forest of Dean | The Salvation Army.