ALMOST 10 months ago, my son was badly injured in a road accident. For some time he was unable to walk without a frame and his recovery is still ongoing. Part of his more recent health plan involves physiotherapy and sessions at a Five Acres gym to help him rebuild wasted muscle and regain his fitness. He has also been attending the organised health walks. This service has come in for much criticism as people complain that it is a waste of money.

This service has been invaluable to my son. For a previously fit and active man the implications of such an accident have been both physical and emotional and the walks have really lifted his spirits. So if you feel that these are a waste of money, please consider the following:

The walks are supervised, allowing me peace of mind that should my son require help, it is available to him. Also, the organiser knows what my son is capable of and tailors the walk according to his abilities and the abilities of others involved. 'Just going for a walk' is not always a safe option.

Every walk is one less session indoors with the physiotherapist or fitness instructor. Outdoor sessions are more stimulating and cheaper.

The walks have brought some normality during a difficult time.

The psychological boost of being able to go for a walk has been tremendous and, for my son, this is probably the biggest area of benefit. After months of pain and some very dark times, surely it is better to be improving emotional health through walking than though prescriptions.

But many others benefit with entirely different medical needs, for example those recovering from heart attacks. The support of a walk volunteer is essential for encouraging those who are recovering and for the peace of mind of their family.

The savings made to the NHS and the council by this service could be huge. So I would like to say thank you to Lisa and the volunteers for their invaluable service.

– A patient's mother. (Name and address supplied).