Getting outside in Somerset is for everyone and there are lots of activities for people of all abilities.
Sensory walks
Sensory walks help people with complex disabilities to connect with nature and get active. They use their senses to connect with their surroundings and have meaningful experiences. Sense have created a toolkit to help those who support disabled people, to create sensory walks in their area. Visit: www.sense.org.uk/get-support/arts-sport-and-wellbeing/sense-sport/resources/
Walking challenges
Somerset Activity & Sports Partnership have produced some inclusive challenges while out on walks in Somerset. From gathering pieces of nature to create artwork, to identifying colours and ‘Country Walks Bingo’, there is something for everyone. Visit the website for more details on how to get started: www.sasp.co.uk/walking-challenges
Caving
Learn to Cave are experienced in taking people of all abilities into the cases of the Mendip Hills. Led by caving experts you’ll descend into hidden caves to explore life underground. With years of experience of working with people of different abilities, they are able to tailor caving routes to the group, so everyone can have their own slice of adventure. Visit: https://learntocave.com
Accessible countryside
If you use a wheelchair or have trouble walking you can still enjoy the countryside. Look out for sites that offer tramper hire, such as the National Trust. At their Brean Down site, you can use these all-terrain mobility scooters to go off-road and explore the Down and fort. The tramper is for use by anyone who struggles with walking distances or up hills, or who has limited mobility of any kind. You don’t have to be registered disabled or have a Blue Badge to use it. Visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk or for details of more accessible walks in Somerset visit www.accessiblecountryside.org.uk/somerset
Adventure on land and water
For those that fancy something a little more adventurous, Adventure Therapy offers free outdoor activities to children and adults with unique health conditions, impairments or limitations. From rock climbing and mountain biking to surfing and coasteering, they have a whole host of adventures to take part in, with specific project funding in Somerset. For more information visit www.adventuretherapy.org.uk.
Follow Get Outside in Somerset on social media;
Facebook: @GetOutsideinSomerset & Facebook Group, Instagram: @getoutsidesomerset, Twitter: @GetOutsideSom
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