This walk is for women, families, and community members who experience multiple and overlapping barriers to being active and socially connected—particularly women from migrant, low-income, and under-represented communities in Manchester. Many participants face challenges linked to social isolation, caring responsibilities, language barriers, low confidence, and a lack of culturally appropriate opportunities to take part in physical activity.
The aim of the walk is to support connection, wellbeing, and inclusion through gentle, welcoming walking rather than fitness or performance. It creates a safe and respectful space where women can move at their own pace, build confidence, connect with others, and feel a sense of belonging. The walk encourages conversation, peer support, and shared experience, recognising that staying active is closely linked to mental wellbeing, confidence, and the ability to participate fully in community life.
While there are similar walking and physical activity opportunities across Manchester, many do not meet the specific needs, aspirations, or cultural sensitivities of the women we work with. As a result, these women often remain excluded from mainstream activities, which can increase isolation and contribute to deteriorating physical and mental health. Our walk directly addresses this gap by being culturally sensitive, trauma-informed, and genuinely inclusive.
The walk strongly links to this year’s theme of Celebrating Connected Communities, demonstrating how walking and wheeling can bring people together locally, reduce loneliness, and strengthen community ties. It also aligns with Manchester’s strategy of making the city a fairer place to live by providing equal opportunities for people who are often left behind to engage in social and community activities that keep them active and connected.
The route will take place in a familiar and accessible area of Manchester, using local streets and green spaces so participants feel comfortable and confident joining in. The walk will be flexible and inclusive, encouraging intergenerational participation and allowing people to join without prior experience or specialist equipment.
This walk is shaped by lived experience. Our founder, Wardeh Al Nasir, has personal experience of becoming inactive and socially isolated after migration, which significantly impacted her mental and physical health, having previously led a very active life as a teacher. This understanding informs the design and delivery of the walk, ensuring it responds authentically to the realities faced by marginalised and excluded women.
The walk is delivered by Community Thriving Together CIC, a Manchester-based community organisation working to reduce inequalities and support women, children, and families facing social, cultural, and structural barriers. The organisation specialises in inclusive, culturally sensitive, and trauma-informed activities, with a strong focus on supporting women to access and enjoy movement in ways that feel safe, dignified, and welcoming.
Ultimately, this walk is about more than walking. It is about ensuring no one is excluded from opportunities to move, connect, and belong—and about celebrating the power of walking to build healthier, fairer, and more connected communitie