Walking sessions aimed at boosting mental health have restarted, much to the relief of all those who have benefited from the events.

Organised by Carlisle and Eden Mind, the Get Set To Go scheme normally includes a Friday exercise class and a walking session on a Tuesday, but things ground to a halt as Covid cases started increasing sharply.

The scheme, which aims to improve mental wellbeing through exercise, is aimed at isolated members of the community and those struggling with their mental health.

"It was evident from everyone’s faces that being back with the group was a relief and that it has been greatly missed,” said Get Set To Go co-ordinator, Lisa Anderson, after the first walking session back this week. 

"I really thought we should start it up again, because it’s been playing on my mind this whole time that there are people who are really lonely and isolated.

"It was highly important to me we get back to these sessions as soon as possible so as to maintain the mental wellbeing of participants and connect again as a group.”

Carlisle and Eden Mind hope that the Friday exercise classes, which are conducted in partnership with Carlisle United Community Trust, will also be running again from April 9.

Ms Anderson said there were four members at Tuesday's walking session, but insisted that she expects numbers to pick up as the weeks go on. 

"It’s hard to put into words how good it’s been for some people who don’t see anyone, apart from a support worker, for weeks sometimes," she said.

"I’ve been doing this work for 20 years now and it's probably one of the best things I’ve done. It’s just so rewarding to see what a difference you can make to someone’s life by just getting out for a walk. It’s totally humbling."

The walks, which take place around Bitts Park and Rickerby Park in Carlisle, are socially distanced.

To get involved, email lisa.anderson@cemind.org or visit Carlisle and Eden Mind's website to find out more.