Frequently Asked Questions.
Q: What people say about SWAG
A: “My kids say that joining SWAG is the best thing I ever did, that it has put the life back in me, that I am smiling again.”
“I have made many good friends through SWAG and have enjoyed weekend trips away.”
“Everyone is friendly, and as a new person, that makes it easy to join in”.
Q: Who do I contact to book my place on an event?
A: Once you become a Swag member you will be subscribed to our emailing system where all details of events will be emailed out.
Q: Who leads and organises events.
A: Swag has a committee of volunteers who put together a full programme of events. It’s important to realise that the group is run by volunteer members. Many of the members lead walks, organise holidays & weekends away and social events.
Q: Who joins SWAG?
A: People from all walks of life.
Q: How many members do you have?
We currently have approximately 320 members.
Q: If I join, will I be expected to lead walks?
A: No, it is not compulsory. We will encourage and support anyone keen to lead or jointly lead a walk because it is beneficial to have as many volunteers as possible. We will help give you the confidence and skills to read a map and plan walks. With today’s Smart phone technology it is a lot easier than it used to be.
Q: I might not come on more than a few walks per year. Does this matter?
A: No, as this sounds like the predicament of many members; we lead busy lives. There is no minimum or maximum requirement for attending walks and no explanations needed if you have long gaps between coming out with us. Members dip in and out as their life circumstances dictate.
Q: Can I bring my dog?
A: We occasionally have dogs on walks, but this is at the Walk Leader’s discretion. Conditions are not always suitable, and you should contact the walk leader in advance to seek their agreement.
Q: How fit should I be?
A: You should comfortably be able to walk at least 5 miles in 2 hours.
Q: If I fall unwell on a walk what should I do?
A: Tell the leader as soon as possible and usually the advice would be to leave the walk and return home. It always pays to come on a walk prepared with a mobile phone and a map and contact details for a friend or relative that you or the walk leader can contact to collect you.
Q: What if I injure myself on a walk?
A: SWAG accepts no responsibility for illness or injury of participants. You walk with us at your own risk. This is consistent with the Ramblers Association and other walking groups.
Q: I don’t have a car?
A: Transport to and from walks is normally pooled. Petrol money at the current rate per mile is offered to the driver.
Q: What should I wear / bring with me on walks?
A: You should ensure you are properly equipped: walking boots, waterproofs, rucksack with extra clothing and a packed lunch are all essential. Participation on walks is at the discretion of the walk leader.
