Health & Safety
I hold the NEBOSH General Certificate in Occupational Health & Safety.
The safety and well-being of you and the group, is my paramount concern! This is the main reason why I insist on a ratio of one leader to 8 walk participants. *Please note - Groups of more than 8 people will usually require the enlistment of 'back-up' assistants. This will incur additional cost and this will be reflected in the price per person payable. Please contact me to discuss.
*IMPORTANT NOTE (1) - It is your responsibility to attend the walk in appropriate attire. The basic requirement for everyone, is to wear stout walking footwear, have waterproof and warm clothing and to take sufficient food & drink for a full day on the hill.
Failure to comply with the above basic requirements may result in the walk having to be postponed or even cancelled!
*IMPORTANT NOTE (2) - Walking is inherrantly a low-risk activity, however, participants should be aware that risks still exist and accidents may still occur, no matter how many risk-assessments are done! Walking in the outdoors means you will come across rough or steep terrain, stream-crossings, mud, rocks, animals, bad weather and busy roads. As individuals and adults , you are responsible for your own actions and safety when confronted with such hazards. Please take care! As walk-leader, I have a duty of care in compiling and risk-assessing walking routes, however, I cannot be held responsible for any accidents that may arise.
*TIPS:-
1. Drink plenty of water, not fizzy drinks!
2. Don't wear Jeans! They soak up water and do not dry quickly. A recipe for disaster in cold conditions!
3. Wear sturdy walking boots/shoes, not Trainers! Trainers do not offer the necessary ankle support, have insufficient tread on the sole for muddy tracks and will not keep your feet dry!
4. Before commencing any form of physical exercise it is recommended that you seek medical advice from your GP.
If you or your group have any special requirements, please call me to discuss. As previously mentioned, anything is possible. At Grough-Stuff Walks, I believe that taking a flexible approach is essential to ensure everyone enjoys their day out in the hills. Occasionally, there are times when a particular route will be deemed unsuitable, based on the weather conditions or fitness/readiness of the group on the day. If this happens, an alternative route will be proposed. Should you not want to take the option of walking an alternative route, then you will be refunded your fee minus any travel expenses I may have incurred.