I’m very passionate about the concept behind Men Walking and Talking: I know very well what it’s like when important social and support networks break down, life and work pressures pile on, and identifying and addressing mental health concerns becomes a challenge. I also know the power of walking – putting on your walking shoes, stuffing a few essentials into a backpack, taking those first steps and  getting out under the open sky just to “be”.

Pressure to perform at work, to be a breadwinner, to look or act according to certain external standards – these are all major challenges to men’s mental health, and persistent taboos around talking about emotions or being too “vulnerable” don’t help either.

That’s why I’m proud to lead the Deansgate Walk – a safe space where men have the opportunity to open up and talk about their experiences and emotions with other like-minds. We can talk, we can listen, or we can just be good company for each other.

So, come along for a walk, make some new friends, and share your story.