​​Outdoor participation can offer challenge, connection, confidence and a powerful sense of possibility. However, physical, sensory and cognitive demands can also create barriers that are easily overlooked.

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This highly-regarded and practical online CPD series helps outdoor practitioners understand those demands, identify barriers and consider proportionate adaptations—while preserving individual choice, meaningful challenge and the essential character of the activity.

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Testimonials from previous attendees: 

“This presentation by Joanna was one of the best, if not the best, presentations I have ever received. It was both engaging and relevant to my job as a mountain leader. The topics covered were detailed but not onerous, and Joanna’s knowledge as both a medical professional and a mountain professional gave it just the right balance. The presentation made me consider my own methods of using client medical forms, and I will be making some changes based on what we discussed. Traditionally, I am not keen on online seminars, but I can honestly say this one kept me alert, awake and engaged throughout. It left me with an increased desire to get into the hills with more clients. It was inspirational, and I will certainly be looking to join more of Joanna’s presentations in the future. Excellent!”

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“Diolch o galon—thanks from the heart—again for all of the workshops. They were extremely interesting and, I would say, transformational in my approach to consciously incorporating more accessible elements into my outdoor practice...."

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Who are the workshops for?

The workshops are designed for:

• outdoor instructors and activity leaders;

• outdoor educators and learning practitioners;

• coaches, guides and expedition staff;

• occupational therapists and rehabilitation professionals;

• community, health and wellbeing practitioners; and

• anyone seeking to make outdoor participation more inclusive.

No specialist clinical knowledge is required.

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Physical Impairment and Outdoor Participation

Explore how reduced mobility, strength, balance, coordination, stamina or dexterity may affect participation in outdoor activities.

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We will consider activity demands, environmental barriers, fatigue, equipment, support and practical adaptations that can enable participation without removing choice or appropriate challenge.

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Choose one date:

• Wednesday 7 October 2026, 7–9 pm UK time

• Tuesday 17 November 2026, 7–9 pm UK time

 

Sensory Impairment and Outdoor Participation

Explore how sight, hearing, touch, proprioception and sensory processing can influence someone’s experience of outdoor environments and activities.

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We will consider communication, orientation, environmental demands, sensory overload or under-stimulation, and practical ways to make participation safer and more meaningful.

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Choose one date:

• Wednesday 21 October 2026, 7–9 pm UK time

• Tuesday 1 December 2026, 7–9 pm UK time

 

Cognitive Impairment and Outdoor Participation

Explore how memory, attention, processing, planning, communication and executive function can affect participation outdoors.

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We will consider the hidden cognitive demands within activities and how instructions, routines, environments and levels of support can be adapted without unnecessarily limiting independence or challenge.

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Choose one date:

• Wednesday 4 November 2026, 7–9 pm UK time

• Tuesday 8 December 2026, 7–9 pm UK time

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Each workshop is offered twice. Participants attend one date for each chosen topic.

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What will you gain?

The workshops will help you:

• recognise physical, sensory and cognitive demands within outdoor activities;

• identify potential barriers to participation;

• analyse activities, environments and support needs more systematically;

• consider practical, person-centred adaptations;

• balance inclusion, safety, autonomy and meaningful challenge;

• communicate more confidently with participants and colleagues; and

• apply the learning to your own outdoor setting or role.

The sessions combine occupational therapy perspectives with practical outdoor experience. They are designed to encourage reflection and professional judgement rather than provide one fixed solution for every person or activity.

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Fees

• £35 for one workshop

• £90 for all three topics​

 

To book a place or ask a question, email vitaladaptation@gmail.com.

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Please state:

• the workshop or workshops you would like to attend;

• your preferred date for each topic; and

• your name, role and organisation, where applicable.

 

If you have an accessibility requirement or would benefit from a reasonable adjustment, please mention this when booking so that we can discuss how best to support your participation.