Walk this May – Make every step count!

May is National Walking Month and we’re encouraging everyone across Staffordshire to ditch the car and walk more – especially for those shorter journeys. Before you reach for your car keys, ask yourself: “Could I walk instead?” 

Walking is one of the easiest ways to improve your health, boost your mood, and do your bit for the environment. Small changes can make a big difference – so why not: 

• If possible, walk to work or school
• Walk to the shops instead of driving
• Have a stroll to your local park, library or café
• Swap a meeting room for a walking meeting
• Enjoy a walk with the dog, family or friends and take a break from screens

Whether you’re walking for fitness, health, wellbeing or just to get some fresh air, we hope you make every step count this May. 

Let’s walk more, drive less, and feel better – one step at a time! 

Walking Warriors – Walk to school week is back 

Walk to School week takes place on Monday 19 May and will run until Friday 23 May 2025.* 

This Walk to School Week, we’re inviting primary school pupils across Staffordshire to become Walking Warriors! 

What’s in store for Walking Warriors? 

• Rewards for walking - Pupils who walk to school will earn special walking warrior stickers and bookmarks.
• Fun activities - Schools will receive Walking Warrior-themed resources to keep pupils engaged.
• A healthier community - More walking means less congestion at school gates, cleaner air and safer streets.

Walking to school is a great way to start the day—it keeps children active, helps the environment, and even boosts concentration in the classroom. That’s why we’re encouraging more pupils to swap the car for their trainers and take part in this exciting challenge! 

*Schools can choose to run the challenge during a different week in May that best fits the needs of their pupils.  

How can you get involved? 

Parents, pupils, and schools – we need you to join the movement!  

Walking to school isn’t just a great way to start the day—it’s a simple way to boost health, reduce congestion, and help the environment! Whether you walk the whole way or park and stride (parking a short distance from school and walking the rest), every step makes a difference. 

Why walk? 
 
Happy, healthy bodies & minds – Walking is great exercise and helps kids feel more awake and ready to learn. 
Safer streets – Fewer cars mean less congestion around the school gates. 
Cleaner air – Cutting car journeys helps reduce pollution, making a healthier environment for everyone. 
 
Too far to walk the whole way? Try park and stride! 
 
If you live further away, parking a short distance from school and walking the last few minutes still brings all the benefits. It’s a win-win for parents, children, and the whole community! 

Let’s lace up, step out, and make this Walk to School Week the biggest yet! 

Step into Spring with our free community walks! 

Live in Newcastle-under-Lyme and looking for a fun, friendly way to get more active this May?  

Join our INTO team for a series of free community walks during National Walking Month. It’s a great way to boost your fitness, enjoy the fresh air, and connect with others in your local area. 

Whether you're new to walking or just fancy a bit of company, everyone’s welcome – bring a friend or meet new ones! 

 Check out the timetable and book your free place today.