Steps Programme (Hillingdon, Harrow & Brent)
- Location: Age UK Hillingdon Harrow and Brent
- Price: Free
Please note, this service is not available outside Age UK Hillingdon, Harrow and Brent - Head Office's catchment area.
Email: stepsprogramme@ageukhhb.org.uk
Telephone: 0208 756 4391
Gentle walking support for people 65+ to regain confidence and reconnect
Take the first step towards feeling like yourself again
If you’ve recently been discharged from hospital or lost confidence getting out and about, our Steps programme can help.
We pair people 65+ with a trained volunteer for gentle, weekly outdoor walks - helping you rebuild confidence, feel supported and get back to enjoying your community again.
This free programme is open to residents of Hillingdon, Harrow and Brent.
What is the Steps programme?
Steps is a six-week walking support programme for older adults who feel anxious or unsure about going out alone, even though they’re physically able to walk.
You’ll be matched with a friendly volunteer who’ll walk with you each week, offering encouragement, company and a gentle nudge towards renewed independence.
How we can help
● One-to-one walks with a trained volunteer
● Encouragement and companionship to ease back into walking
● Support for confidence, mental wellbeing and social connection
● Monitoring of progress over six weeks
● Initial assessment to check walk-readiness and discuss any concerns
Who is the programme for?
● People 65+ living in Hillingdon, Harrow or Brent
● Recently discharged from hospital, or feeling isolated or anxious about going out
● Physically able to walk, but need support to do so
● At risk of isolation, low confidence or reduced wellbeing
Why choose Age UK Hillingdon, Harrow and Brent?
● Free and accessible to local residents
● Delivered by trained, compassionate volunteers
● Designed to reduce isolation and rebuild confidence
● A gentle, person-centred approach focused on recovery and wellbeing
Pricing and availability
● This is a free service
● Only available to residents 65+ in Hillingdon, Harrow and Brent
● Referrals can be made directly or through trusted professionals
What to expect
● Call us or speak to a professional who can refer you
● We’ll carry out a short assessment to understand your needs
● We match you with a trained volunteer for weekly walks
● You’ll take part in six weeks of support, with encouragement and check-ins along the way
No pressure - just a small step in the right direction
Get in touch
📞 020 8756 4391
🕘 Monday to Friday, 9.00am to 4.00pm check
📧 stepsprogramme@ageukhhb.org.uk
You can also ask a healthcare professional to refer you via our secure system. You can also use our general enquiry form to get in touch.
FAQ's
Is this a medical or physiotherapy service?
No - this is a wellbeing-focused programme designed to help rebuild walking confidence through companionship and support.
Do I need to have been in hospital recently?
No - the programme is also open to anyone 65+ who feels isolated or anxious about going out alone.
Is there a cost?
No - this is a free service.
How long does the programme last?
Typically six weeks, with one walk per week.
Can I refer someone else?
Yes - professionals can refer via secure systems. Please contact us for details.
Other support you might find helpful
● Help at Home - help with cleaning, shopping, and other tasks
● Dementia Sitting Service - trusted respite for carers
● Homeshare - companionship and support in exchange for affordable accommodation
● Lasting Power of Attorney - plan ahead with help from our expert team