Guided Woodland Walks

No, you are welcome to show up on the day.

But what if the weather is really poor ?

If it’s really bad, we’ll improvise by doing some light indoor games / socialising and perhaps a shorter local stroll, in case the sun comes out on time.

Yes !

On each walk, there will be some trekking poles available free on loan during the walks. Whilst they will provide some support, they should not be considered as formal walking aids that prevent falls.

As we do not know how many people will join the walk each time, please note that we cannot guarantee that one will be available for everybody.

This ultimately depends on the fitness level of the walkers on the day, as we will adapt the route, speed and length to their abilities.

As a rule of thumb, we aim to cover a distance of 2-3 miles and include rest points, which, all in all, should take around 1.5 hour-ish.

Totally, whether you come once or to all of them : you are welcome.

No, you are warmly welcome on your own.

No, you are warmly welcome on your own.

You certainly are ! Though please note that dementia may be the main theme of conversation.

Yes, you are very welcome. Whilst the focus is leaning towards dementia, the emotions and experience of bereavement (irrespective of the reason) are acknowledged, too.

Thank you first of all for considering. That means a lot to us.

These walks are currently free, thanks to the funding we received.

As an individual you can support our work going forward by :

• Playing our weekly lottery

• Setting up a standing order, ask Esther for details

• Purchasing our online support resources.

• Making a one-off contribution on the day

• Buying our Mindfulness for Caregivers booklet.

• Liking and subscribing to our socials

• Sharing our training offer with contacts of yours, who work for large organisations.

As an organisation, you can do this by :

• Booking our engaging training

• Sponsoring

In general, we suggest you allow three hours in total, which includes :

• Registration, pre-walk comfort break at the pub

• The walk, including stops

• The optional after social time at the pub.

Absolutely not, no questions asked, no judgement. It’s totally up to you. Because a social is only fun if you're up for it or have the time ! This may even differ each time. Again, no justification needed.

All we ask is that you say goodbye, so we know you’re okay.

Given that we have about one to two hours maximum from the pub, the route itself may not be a total surprise to you any more, once you have attended a couple of times.

We have prepared varied route options, though, and we aim to bring some variety during the walks.

Yes to evidence to our funders that we are doing the work :) and for our social media.

Before the walk, during registration in the pub, you’ll be asked to sign a consent form.

What if I don’t like my picture being taken ?

Then there’s either the option to appear unrecognisable (like from the back, just your shoes a part of your arm) or for you to walk more towards the back of the group so you don't appear in the pictures.

We will NOT take a picture of you if you haven’t consented.

Registered guide and support dogs are warmly welcome (also in the pub).

Any other well-behaved dog is welcome on the walk. Though they have to be on a lead, not jump up to other walkers, disturb the brief the mindfulness moments and pose a trip hazard.

These walks aim to stimulate physical activity and provide a supportive environment for those living with dementia, are caregiving or being bereaved. This may include moments of silence, conversations about adult life concerns and a safe space to share emotions.

It's not within the remit of these walks to cater for children.

However, very young children up until pre-school age, under the care of their parent/carer are welcome. But please note that the walks may not be suitable for prams.

Symbiosia is a tiny Social Enterprise (registered in England & Wales: 13366499) but with a big vision!

A new residential social care model for the UK which is fun for people and planet!

Our founding director (Esther Wiskerke) is based in West Wickham and you'll meet her on the walks.

Here's a short video about Symbiosia's vision:

How's your big vision related to these walks?

Developing Symbiosia's vision has proved to be a mammoth journey! We do these walks to make a difference in the here and now and to help spreading the word about Symbiosia.

We are thrilled to share that we have also been awarded funding from the KTR fund to organise outdoor gentle Sport & Games sessions for people living with dementia and their family caregivers living in Bromley.

These will start mid May 2026. More details to follow soon, but in the interim email: info@symbiosia.org.uk for more details or you'd like to advertise them.

YES !

As long as you are either:

• a person living with dementia

• or a family caregiver (due to any condition)

• or a bereaved carer (due to any reason)

AND

• Live in any one of the London boroughs.