A local man, inspired by the tragic loss of a close friend to suicide, has launched a weekly "Walk and Talk" group to provide a safe space for men to connect and share their struggles.
Sean Broomhall told us: "It was certainly an eye-opener when a very close friend of nearly all my life decided he'd had enough and called it a day. It was too close to home, something had to be done."
Sean said "I am in no way, shape or form a 'people person', I'm a tyre fitter tucked away in a corner of a workshop so didn't know what to do myself."
He decided to reach out to a mutual good friend, April Angel, who suggested the walk. "Within 3 hours she'd made our group like an absolute hero," he added.
The group, now in its fifth week, welcomes men of all ages and backgrounds. Children are also welcome to join during term time, promoting positive connections and support for future generations. As the weather improves the group plan to host barbecues and other social events.
The initiative aims to break down the stigma surrounding men's mental health and show that men are not alone in their struggles.
Sean added: "I think it's easier for men to open up when we're out in the open and around our own kind. It's just getting the word out there to show we do care we do have time to listen and your not on your own."
Men interested in joining the "Walk and Talk" group can find more information on the Facebook page: Mens Mental Health Matters
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