Over recent years, there has been growing recognition of the role that everyday movement plays in supporting both physical and mental wellbeing. Small, regular activity can help improve mood, focus and energy levels, while also supporting connection with colleagues and the wider community.
This May, we’re proud to be taking part in Living Streets’ National Walking Month. Funded by West Yorkshire Combined Authority, the campaign aims to make walking the natural choice for everyday journeys – helping people build healthier habits and more active lives.
Why walking matters
Walking (including the use of mobility aids) and wheeling (wheelchairs or mobility scooters) are among the most accessible forms of physical activity. They can be easily built into daily routines, whatever your role, ability or fitness level.
Regular physical activity outdoors has a wide range of benefits, including:
- improving physical and mental health
- boosting concentration and focus at work
- creating opportunities for connection, inclusion and belonging
- contributing to a healthier environment
National Walking Month is a chance to pause, reflect, and explore how small changes can make a real difference – both individually and collectively.
Turning intention into action
Throughout the month, we’ll be sharing weekly prompts and ideas with colleagues to help make walking part of the working day in realistic, manageable ways. From short lunchtime strolls to walking meetings, the focus is on what feels achievable.
“Walking gives me a brain and sensory break from being in the office – it’s literally a breath of fresh air and helps ease tension."
We’re also introducing Walking Champions across the organisation – colleagues who will help encourage positive habits, share ideas, and support a culture where stepping away from desks and screens is actively welcomed.
To bring this to life, we asked some of our Wellbeing Champions to share how walking fits into their routines, and what benefits they notice most.
For Charlie Smart, our Operational Team Manager, walking has become a natural part of the working day: “Any kind of physical activity really helps with my wellbeing. I like the routine it creates and how it gives a bit of structure to my day. Now the days are getting longer and lighter, a morning walk helps set me up for work – it gives me time to wake up properly, get some fresh air and clear my head.”
Charlie also highlights the value of walk-and-talk conversations: “They are great for debriefs or check-ins, as they can feel more relaxed and less formal, which really helps conversations flow.”
A break for body and mind
SilverCloud Supporter, Jo Keighley, describes walking as a vital reset during the working day: “Walking gives me a brain and sensory break from being in the office – it’s literally a breath of fresh air and helps ease tension.
“It also helps loosen my legs and back after sitting for much of the morning, and I notice it helps with digestion or appetite around lunchtime. I love observing people, shops and architecture, and noticing nature – trees, birds, seasonal changes.”
For our administrator, Vanessa Stillwater, movement has always been part of everyday life: “I think of being active as a way of life. No matter the weather, mood or how busy things are, physical activity has holistic benefits. Whether it’s walking, cycling or swimming, it helps focus the mind, centre the body and regulate emotions.”
Making walking work for you
Our Wellbeing Champions shared plenty of practical ideas for fitting more walking into the day:
- getting off public transport a stop earlier
- parking a little further away and walking the rest
- taking short lunchtime walks nearby
- trying walking meetings where appropriate
They also highlighted local routes near our offices in Leeds and Halifax, including canal paths around Leeds Dock, green spaces in Meanwood, and well‑loved spots in Halifax such as People’s Park, Manor Heath Park and the Piece Hall.
