I suppose you haven't had any replies up to now because it's not an "at work" function? 35-40 persons to me is not a small group. I suggest asking the mountain rescue teams in the areas you are going.

As others have said this doesn't sound like a work activity but I'm in a generous mood and passionate about the outdoors. Aside form the fact that I actually am against such events because there are so many of these taking place now tnat it is causing a real headache in terms of erosion. Really need more info to advise you as that can make a huge difference. First off I assume you are not organising this for paying guests (in which case you want mountain leader qualifications) more that you are organising this as some sort of charity event for work colleagues or similar? Can you give more indication of what context this walk is taking place? Which peaks are you referring to?Potentially which routes too. What is a relatively short space of time? Who are these people (indication of fitness, health and experience)? I assume we are talking about amateur walks up paths rather than challenging mountaineering peaks? My initial thoughts would be that 40 people in one group is way too big. Completely unamanageable at that size and indivdual group members would get fed up anway, waiting for others. Mountain rescue are volunteers and they do not have the time to coordinate every charity or other event. Comms will depend on where you are going. Mountain first aid is preferable just because doing first aid in the outdoors is a bit more ad hoc. Don't think you'll have anyone with that though.No requirement for first aiders for a non work activity. From a sensible point of veiw someone in each group with first aid knoweldge and definately a first aid kit suitable to the mountains in each group. More info and then you can get more help!

You really will need to consider what you want to achieve with these walks and as other people have already mentioned, reduce the group sizes down with competent leaders. Don't forget the time of year and just because you intend to walk along recognised routes that is no reason not to be adequately prepared with everyone walking having the right Clothing and Equipment and a proper Safety plan in place. Weather conditions can change rapidly on mountains and high peaks and so don't rely on the weather reports when deciding what is appropriate kit to take - assume the worst! Too many people suffer injuries, or worse, from simply being ill-prepared. I don't mean to sound heavy handed or patronising but it sounds like you may lack the experience to be organising such an event and so I would seek further specific advice based on your detailed plan.

Hi Alex, You might also want to have a look at the HSE website on adventure activities licensing http://www.hse.gov.uk/aala/index.htm They have information on licenced providers

It's also worth noting that there is still an awful lot of snow lying on the peaks at the moment. Anybody venturing on any high level walks at this time should be prepared for this.