A business which promotes walking as a route to good mental health and wellbeing, Walk Works owners Caroline Gratrix and Liz Bradbury bring so much to the local community –individuals, organisations and businesses alike.
They champion ‘local’ by finding the most beautiful walks (suitable for all abilities) in our area, showcasing the beauty of Reading and the surrounding areas, said nominators.
The pair run a Wednesday Wellbeing walk every week, starting in Reading town centre, to encourage people to take some time away from their desk.
This provides a fantastic opportunity to network and connect whilst being out in nature.
The firm organises walks around business hub Green Park, championing health, wellbeing and networking for the thousands of people who work there. Walk Works also puts together corporate/team events and walks to support team cohesion.
Liz Bradbury and Caroline Gratrix from Walk Works said: “It was fantastic and we’re incredibly proud to get this award, and for something that we genuinely love doing.
“Walk Works has been going for nearly five years now, and has developed into an incredible community of people.
“We love walking together, exploring new places, and we just thought ‘let’s get other people along and see if they would like to join us.
“Seeing it develop and unfold has been an absolute joy.
“It’s amazing to be able to show people Reading town centre, and all the areas around the town that we’re so proud of, as well as its history.
“Walking and talking with people is such a pleasure.
“Getting exercise, and time away from your screen is so important.
“WalkWorks isn’t a netwalking group – we walk for wellness – but often people chat and end up working with each other.
“We’ve had friendships develop; we’ve even had a love match – and all this happens just through walking.
“We love to encourage more people to get out and walk.
“It’s such a lovely thing to do, to get out of the office and enjoy nature.
“They may think it’s just a walk, but once they’ve joined us, they realise just how valuable it is.
“You don’t need any equipment, just comfortable footwear, and it’s not competitive – it’s just lovely.
“Walking definitely works.”
