What are they?
Our Green Walks project was designed to help visually impaired people in Oxfordshire experience the joys of nature in a supportive environment. The walks aim to build confidence, improve both mental and physical well-being, and foster social connections. By offering accessible walking routes and a welcoming community, we encourage participants to explore the outdoors and connect with others, helping to combat isolation and promote a healthy, active lifestyle.
If you would like to join in or want to find out more contact us by email at: info@myvision.org.uk, or call us at: 01865 725 595.
Award Winning Project
MyVision Oxfordshire is proud to announce that we have won the “Innovation and Inspire” Award at the Visionary Conference 2024 for our Green Walks project. This award recognizes our commitment to creating accessible nature experiences for visually impaired individuals across Oxfordshire. The Green Walks initiative focuses on improving physical and mental well-being, fostering social connections, and building confidence by encouraging outdoor activities in local green spaces. We are so proud of this recognition and excited to continue developing impactful projects for our community.
INNOVATE AND INSPIRE
What people have to say?
“Since my sight has deteriorated, I have lost confidence and fallen over a couple of times, however due to the support from charities and being a member of the walking group it has helped me to get back out there and realise I can travel independently and I am even going on a solo holiday to another country.”
“For one of the walks, I brought my 8 year old son along and he really enjoyed himself too. He was upset that he would be at school the next time I went.”
“Moving here from another area, I lost confidence in public transport. Since joining the walking group and taking the bus to new areas I have gained more confidence. This has made me want to get a bus pass and travel locally.”
We have Green Walks in:
Didcot
If you live in Didcot and surrounding area and are interested in joining our Green Walks, click here to find out when and where we meet.
Abingdon
If you live in Abingdon and surrounding area and are interested in joining our Green Walks, click here to find out when and where we meet.
East Oxford
If you live in Oxford and surrounding area and are interested in joining our Green Walks, click here to find out when and where we meet.
Witney
If you live in Witney and surrounding area and are interested in joining our Green Walks, click here to find out when and where we meet.
Banbury
If you live in Banbury and surrounding area and are interested in joining our Green Walks, click here to find out when and where we meet.
Full Green Walks Calendar
For information on all our Green walks like when and where we meet, click here to view the full calendar.
Research behind the Green Walks project.
The Green Walks project, initiated by MyVision Oxfordshire, is grounded in research led by Natural England in collaboration with the Research Institute for Disabled Consumers, Oxfordshire County Council, and the University of Oxford. The study, “Creating More Accessible Green & Blue Spaces: Understanding the experience of people with visual impairments that visit green and blue spaces,” focused on identifying the barriers faced by visually impaired people when trying to access nature.
The research uncovered that people with visual impairments often encounter challenges like unclear signage, uneven terrain, and a lack of accessible information. These barriers can prevent them from fully enjoying the mental and physical health benefits of spending time outdoors. The report highlighted the need for more inclusive design and resources to ensure visually impaired individuals can safely and confidently access parks, forests, and waterways. The Green Walks project uses this research as a foundation to help tackle these barriers, offering opportunities for participants to explore nature in an accessible, supportive environment.
