Men Walking & Talking has rapidly turned into a key lifeline. Across the country, groups are forming to address mental health stigma and build community to provide safe spaces for men. The program started in Telford in 2021 with only a single walking group. Since then, it has grown into a national movement, spreading into towns and cities all over England and Wales.
Neil Winterson is one of the original members of the Wells group and has seen this initiative grow and develop. The Wells group continues to meet every Tuesday and now has more than 20 active members. Winterson said it was “absolutely amazing” gig to have so many men taking vocal action.
The group provides space for men to deeply explore topics. It provides them an opportunity to escape the stresses of everyday life. Participants are usually open about their experiences, from the mundane to the emotional and psychological burdens that come with their everyday struggles. As Winterson explained, on these long walks, they would discuss “whatever was in their mind.”
Steve Chitty, who joined the Wells group in February 2024, felt a similar surge of anxiety and depression after a personal crisis—enough that he started looking for help. Ultimately, he discovered his calm inside the city, referring to these walks as “almost like me, first of all therapy.” Chitty pointed out that the group accepted newcomers with “no judgment and open arms,” stressing that this was a judgment free zone.
Winterson’s been addressing the stigma around men’s mental health. She focused in particular on how society pressures men to “zip their lips and bottle everything up.” He reflected on common phrases like “pull your socks up,” “stiff upper lip,” and “man up,” which can discourage open expression of feelings.
“Nobody brings any of that baggage to this group and it is open arms – you can bring whatever you need to bring and we’ll give you as much support as we can.” – Neil Winterson
The logistical support made possible through the Men Walking & Talking initiative is unparalleled. Winterson remarked, “Just being there for each other, being there to listen, being there to support is really important and that’s why we come out every week.” This camaraderie allows participants to discuss a range of topics, whether it be mundane concerns like the weather or more serious personal struggles.
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