After a short break, Barrow Buddies returned in September 2025 — bringing back some much-loved activities and introducing exciting new opportunities to get involved.
Alongside our walking programme, we’re excited to be expanding into a wider range of activities:
- Monthly cycling sessions at Park Vale track, giving clients the chance to try a variety of bikes in a safe, supportive environment — including trikes, side-by-side bikes, tandems, hand cycles, and more.
- Scootering and balance bike sessions for our Children & Young People (CYP) Group, delivered in partnership with YouthAbility.
- More sports opportunities, currently being developed, to give clients even greater choice when it comes to staying active and trying new things.
Building Confidence, Independence & Wellbeing
The scheme matches sighted guide volunteers with vision impaired people, offering accessible short walks from organised meeting points. These safe space walks are also open to people with mobility issues, helping to build confidence, friendship, independence, and mental wellbeing. This year, we’ll be offering an even wider variety of routes to enjoy.
For those seeking an extra challenge, we’ll also be launching an advanced walking group for people preparing to take on The Cumbria Way.
Supported by Active Cumbria
This exciting programme is proudly funded by Active Cumbria’s Travel Actively Barrow initiative.
“Barrow Buddies has the potential to transform the lives of people with vision impairments.”
– Siona Hartley, Travel Actively Development Officer, Active Cumbria
