Local men take first steps in mental health initiative

A new weekly walking group aimed at improving men’s mental health has made a positive start with its first event in Warminster.

Jack Bellairs started the Men Walking and Talking Warminster group as a safe space for men to meet, chat and support each other while walking together. He described the turnout at the first walk as “amazing”.

“The walk went really well,” said Jack, who recently moved to Warminster with his family. “I had 16 men turn up, which was way more than I expected.

“Due to the nights being dark still, we kept to the main road and then did a lap of the town park before heading back to the train station. It was really good to see everyone talking and mixing between the group, all sharing about themselves.

The initiative is part of the national Men Walking and Talking movement, which encourages men to connect through regular walks.

“A lot of people were happy to give suggestions for walks we could do,” Jack added. “Even ones where we might need to drive to; Shearwater and Cley Hill being a couple. We actually stood for about 10 minutes after the walk talking still.

“Now the nights are lighter, it’s going to open so many more walks for us to do.”

The group will meet at Warminster Railway Station every Thursday at 7pm. All men are welcome to attend, and dogs are also allowed to join in on walks. Attendees do not have to commit to joining every walk and can just turn up on the night. Walks are free to join.

For more information, visit the group’s Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/groups/813296435169029/