Through January and February 2025, we had the privilege of delivering a fantastic programme of five guided hikes to Divis and Black Mountain, in partnership with Storehouse Belfast. Funded by the Public Health Agency through the Clear Project, this initiative provided people from disadvantaged communities, including refugees and asylum seekers, with the opportunity to experience the great outdoors, improve their wellbeing, and form new friendships.

A total of 52 participants took part, with an incredible 64% reporting an improvement in their wellbeing after each walk, measured using the Warwick Edinburgh Mental Wellbeing Scale. The success of this programme was made possible by the generous support of several organisations, each playing a vital role in making these hikes accessible and enjoyable.

Setting Off on the Journey

Each hike began at Storehouse Belfast, where participants gathered to be briefed on the day ahead. Thanks to the support of the Alpkit Foundation, everyone was kitted out with essential outdoor gear, ensuring they could take part comfortably regardless of the weather conditions. Without this vital equipment, many participants would not have been able to join the walks and benefit from the experience.

Before setting off, packed lunches were collected, kindly provided by the charity Stepping Stones. These delicious meals ensured that everyone was fuelled and ready for the adventure ahead. Stepping Stones does amazing work in supporting people with learning difficulties and special educational needs to move into employment, making their contribution even more meaningful.

Exploring Divis and Black Mountain

With groups of around 12 people per walk, we made our way to Divis and Black Mountain, where we were warmly welcomed by the National Trust. A huge thank you to the National Trust for providing access to their stunning land and looking after us during our visits.

Each walk took us to the summit of Divis Mountain, offering breathtaking views stretching as far as Scotland, the Sperrin Mountain range, Slemish Mountain, Lough Neagh, Strangford Lough, and a spectacular vantage point over Belfast city. After a well-earned break and lunch at the summit, we continued to the twin communications masts before following the boardwalk to Black Mountain. From there, we enjoyed an even more detailed view of Belfast before taking the ridge route back to the National Trust coffee shop and returning to Storehouse Belfast.

More Than Just a Walk

These hikes weren’t just about physical activity – they were an opportunity for learning, connection, and mindfulness. Along the way, participants discovered the area’s rich history, flora, and fauna. Guided mindfulness exercises equipped them with practical techniques to manage stress and improve mental resilience, promoting positive mental health that extends far beyond the hike itself.

Voices from the Trail

The impact of the programme is best captured in the words of the participants:

• “I’m so happy today for everything. I enjoyed today.”
• “It was a fantastic experience. I feel like I recharged myself with positive energies and am refreshed. It was very good.”
• “From the start, the people have shown so much hospitality. The treatment has been amazing.”
• “The whole experience has been extremely welcoming.”
• “It feels like family, it feels very warm even though it was -6°C outside.”
• “I felt refreshed and invigorated.”
• “The hiking was fantastic, and it was a very beautiful day.”
• “The staff were friendly, and we had very nice food. People kept checking to see if we were fine.”
• “The way I went is not the way I came back—it was a very good experience. I’d definitely do it again.”
• “I feel very refreshed physically and mentally.”
• “I’m thankful for meeting new people and making new friends.”
• “Wonderful time!”
• “Amazing, wonderful time.”
• “The views were breathtaking. We really enjoyed it.”

Looking to the Future

These hikes demonstrated the power of nature in bringing people together, improving mental and physical wellbeing, and fostering a sense of community. We are incredibly proud of everyone who took part and grateful to all the organisations that made this programme possible.

We can’t wait to build on this success and continue to create opportunities for people to connect with the outdoors, each other, and themselves. Here’s to many more adventures ahead!ealthy Hikes at Divis and Black Mountain: A Journey to Wellbeing