A NEW walking group set up in the wake of the murder of Ashling Murphy enjoyed its first walk on Monday evening.

‘Steps to Freedom’ was established by Nicole Quigley and Ciara Maguire in the wake of Ashling’s murder in the Republic, and currently has groups across the island of Ireland.

The groups had a launch walk on Monday evening across the island, which was a huge success.

Krista Maguire is the volunteer for the group in the Enniskillen area, and told this newspaper she was delighted with the turn-out and success of the launch walks.

READ MORE: Vigils held for murdered teacher in Fermanagh

She said there are now 93 participants in a WhatsApp group for Enniskillen alone.

Krista said: “We had our launch walk on Monday; we did a loop of town and finished off in the M Lounge for tea, coffee and biscuits that they provided for us.

“It was a fantastic turn-out and I felt so proud of myself and the group, Nicole, Ciara and for all of the volunteers and participants who had their groups out as well.”

Speaking about the impact of of the young teacher’s murder which resonated across the island, Krista said: “Ashling Murphy’s death was an incredibly tragic incident, and I feel it opened the eyes of a lot of women.

“I can’t speak for all women, but I for one can say I absolutely feel less safe.

“I feel that a lot of women would agree, and speaking to some of the Enniskillen group at our launch walk, [the murder] is definitely having an effect on how women feel about their own safety going out for walks alone.”

When asked if she felt less anxious heading out in a group setting, Krista said: “Definitely. I felt more relaxed and comfortable, and I was able to chat with lots of different women of all age groups, and I feel that everyone felt a lot less anxious, which is great to see.”

READ MORE: Denzil McDaniel: Ashling Murphy murder poses real challenges and problems for us all

The group is primarily aimed at women. Krista explained: “Steps to Freedom is mainly aimed at women’s safety, but I feel that it is important to include gender equality for those who may prefer not to go by one gender, or for members of the LGBT+ community, for example.

“I feel that it is important for everyone to feel safe. The group is available for all age groups, and children and pets are welcome.

“We had some dogs and kids join in with us on our launch walk, and it was lovely.

“There are no set times or locations – your group is basically a safe space to be able to meet and chat with like-minded people, and it gives you the opportunity to go out for walks or activities with the knowledge that you are safe.”

She added: “Everyone is welcome!”

Explaining the process of joining a Steps to Freedom group, Krista said: “There is Instagram and Facebook pages; search for ‘Steps to Freedom’.

“On the Facebook members page, you need to request to join, and someone will accept you as soon as possible.

“On that page there is a pinned post which includes a database; this allows you to see if your area has a group. If you see your area, there will be a WhatsApp link provided next to it – simply click the link. You must have the WhatsApp app to join the chat.

“If you are having trouble, message the Steps to Freedom page and ask for a link for your area. If your area is not on the database and you would like to volunteer to start a group in your area, message the page, and Nicole or Ciara will respond with further info on doing so.”

There are currently five groups in Fermanagh for Steps to Freedom, in Enniskillen, Irvinestown, Kesh, Belleek, and Lisnaskea.

Neighbouring areas with groups include Fintona and Dromore, Co. Tyrone, and Clones, Co. Monaghan.