A veteran in Warminster is launching a weekly walking group to help men improve their mental health and connect with others.
Jack Bellairs is starting Men Walking and Talking Warminster, creating a safe space where men can meet, chat and support each other while walking together.
Men Walking and Talking (MWAT) is a national movement that began in 2021. Jack previously organised a MWAT group in Gillingham and, having recently moved to Warminster with his family, decided to start a group in the town.
The first walk will take place on Thursday 26th March at 7pm, starting at Warminster train station. All men are invited, and sessions will be free to attend.
“After doing some research, I found there was only one other men’s group in the area, so I felt it would be a perfect place to start it, especially with the army camps nearby,” said Jack. “Being ex-army myself, I know how bad mental health can be in the military and it is not always well supported within.
“My family have lost close loved ones due to mental health. I have seen firsthand how mental health can affect not just the individual but the family as well.
“I am hoping that the group will become a safe place for men to meet new people they might not normally even think about talking to. A place where men can express concerns or worries, gain advice about life difficulties without being laughed at or judged, all whilst being out in the fresh air and doing low-level exercise such as walking.
“I’m not expecting to change the world, but if it can help even just one person then it has worked in my eyes.”
Jack has also previously worked in the prison service, where he saw many men who were seriously struggling with mental health.
He said, “I have seen people at their lowest points, but I have also seen what a little support can do to someone – how someone being there to listen can change someone’s day, week or even their life.”
The group will meet every Thursday at 7pm at Warminster train station. All men are invited, and sessions will be free to attend. The group will walk for approximately an hour, at the slowest walker’s pace, so that nobody is left behind.
“I want it to be a place where, if you want to talk, then feel free, but also with no pressure to do so,” said Jack. “Just showing up is a massive step towards improving mental health. Talking will come in time.”
For more information, visit the group’s Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/groups/813296435169029/
Pictured: Jack with his son
