Words by Smiley Team
A women’s walking group is fundraising to make their trips more accessible for members from lower-income backgrounds.
Sophie Brown set up Steppin Sistas in Bristol in April 2021 to improve the wellbeing of women of colour by encouraging them to venture into rural spaces, where they typically might feel exposed or judged.
As a grassroots group who are passionate about getting outside in nature, they regularly organise walks, both short and long. The group now has more than 500 members, and has organised trips to local green spots such as Leigh Woods and Snuff Mills, as well as ones further afield to the North Somerset coastal path, and Glastonbury.
(Read about the friends with Parkinsons who tackled this challenging trek)
However, the costs of suitable equipment and travel have proved to be a barrier for some women. Trips outside of the city can incur travel costs, and longer walks require suitable footwear and clothing for health and safety reasons.
“When I hear about how these costs are stopping women from being able to come out, it just breaks my heart and I want to help in any way I can," Sophie told Bristol 24/7. "I had seen other groups raise money through crowdfunding, so I thought why not try the same for us?
“Women want to come out, but they can’t, and the main reason is affordability. Walking boots are expensive and even things like buying a train ticket or wellington boots can be very difficult for some of our members.”
(Learn more about whether local walking groups can help solve urban issues)
Now, the group aims to raise £5,000 by the end of November 2021, with funds going towards subsidising the cost of appropriate walking clothing, such as walking boots, and the travel costs of longer trips.
The group is also fundraising to get more women trained as walking leaders, so Steppin Sistas can expand further. Sophie hopes to give women of colour in Bristol the opportunity to walk in safety and the company of others, who may have similarly faced discrimination.
“I’ve had some really positive feedback," she said. "People tell me that after a walk they’re so relaxed, they sleep better at night, that it clears their head - this just shows me how important it is that everyone has a chance to walk in nature.”
Bristol Steppin Sistas are hoping to reach £5,000 stretch target on Crowdfunder. Help encourage more women of colour to walk and enjoy unknown places to them by donating.
