Meet Our Supporters – The Scottish Women’s Walking Group
Meet Our Supporters – The Scottish Women’s Walking Group
The Scottish Women’s Walking Group (SWWG) has been a long-standing supporter of Scottish Mountain Rescue, contributing thousands of pounds through generous donations and incredible fundraising efforts. We are deeply grateful to this inspiring group of walkers for their commitment to our cause and the impact they have made in supporting our volunteers, who dedicate their time and expertise to saving lives in Scotland’s outdoors.
This year, the SWWG has launched a stunning 2025 calendar to raise further funds for Scottish Mountain Rescue. The calendar features beautiful images taken by group members while exploring Scotland’s diverse landscapes. These photos reflect the inclusive and accessible spirit of the group, showcasing everything from wild and rugged mountain peaks to tranquil lochside walks—offering something for walkers of all abilities to connect with and enjoy.
Order your calendar here.
The Origins of the Scottish Women’s Walking Group
Founded in 2017 by Heather Dunnell, the Scottish Women’s Walking Group has grown into a vibrant community of over 30,000 members across five regional groups:
- Tayside and Fife
- Edinburgh, Lothians and Borders
- Greater Glasgow & Clyde, Lanarkshire and Forth Valley
- Highlands & Islands and Grampian
- Ayrshire, Dumfries & Galloway
Heather created SWWG to encourage women to get outdoors, stay active, and form meaningful connections while exploring Scotland’s breathtaking scenery. From beginners to experienced hikers, the group welcomes all women who share a passion for walking and Scotland’s great outdoors.
We caught up with Heather to learn more about the group’s origins, their connection to Scottish Mountain Rescue, and their fundraising efforts.
“Scottish Women’s Walking Group is all about encouraging women to get outdoors, stay active, and make meaningful connections while exploring Scotland’s beautiful landscapes,” Heather explains. “However, sometimes a walk doesn’t go to plan, and a simple trip or fall can lead to the need for help. Our group has had to call on the amazing volunteers at Scottish Mountain Rescue four times over the past few years, so fundraising is our way of saying thanks.”
Over the last few years, SWWG members have taken part in fundraising events like the Kiltwalk and our virtual challenge, Miles for SMR – raising vital funds to ensure our Mountain Rescue Teams have the equipment, training, and operational support they need to continue their lifesaving work.
2025 Calendar: celebrating Scotland’s landscapes and supporting Scottish Mountain Rescue
The SWWG’s 2025 calendar is a true celebration of Scotland’s natural beauty, featuring images taken by members during their hikes. From awe-inspiring mountain views to peaceful coastlines, the calendar captures the varied landscapes that make Scotland such a special place to explore.
The calendar is available for purchase at SWWG’s online store, with proceeds going directly to support the vital work of Scottish Mountain Rescue.
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What’s next for SWWG?
In addition to the calendar, the Scottish Women’s Walking Group is already planning their next big fundraising event.
“In 2025, we hope to get another team of members together to take part in the Kiltwalk and raise even more funds for Scottish Mountain Rescue,” Heather shares.
The Kiltwalk is a popular fundraising event where participants walk one of three distances (The Wee Wander ~4 miles, The Big Stroll ~ 12 miles or The Mighty Stride ~ 20 miles) to raise money for their chosen causes, and the SWWG has always been enthusiastic about joining in to support our volunteers. The Kiltwalk runs every year in Glasgow, Edinburgh, Dundee and Aberdeen.
Image: Fundraiser Merel van den Haak at the Aberdeen Kiltwalk 2024
With 3 out of 5 rescues funded by donations, we are incredibly grateful for the support of SWWG
At Scottish Mountain Rescue, we are hugely appreciative of SWWG’s continued support. Their fundraising efforts help ensure that our volunteer teams are equipped with the gear, training, and operational support they need to be there when people need help in Scotland’s hills, mountains, and wild spaces.
If you are inspired to take on a fundraising challenge for Scottish Mountain Rescue, we would love to hear from you too! Please email fundraising@scottishmountainrescue.org.
Together, we can ensure that our volunteers are supported in their mission to save lives outdoors – Any Hour, Any Day, Any Weather.
All unlabelled images provided by Heather Dunnell, Scottish Women’s Walking Group
