It’s a crisp Thursday evening in Solihull. A small group of men gathers by the path in Brueton Park under soft streetlights.
No sign-ups, no expectation – just walking shoes, open minds, and the knowledge that any conversation, however small, is welcome.
For many, this weekly walk is more than exercise: it’s a lifeline.
Why this matters: the reality of men’s mental health
Men’s mental health remains a critical issue in the UK.
Around 12.5% of men in England are estimated to have a mental health disorder.
Mental Health UK Men are roughly three times more likely to die by suicide than women.
Surveys show that 40% of men have never spoken about their mental health with anyone – friends, family, or professionals.
In many cases, issues like work stress, financial pressure and isolation remain hidden until they overwhelm the person.
Walking and talking side by side, in a relaxed setting, helps break through that barrier.
It lowers pressure, reduces the spotlight, and makes it easier to open up.
Men Walking & Talking: what it is and how it works
“Men Walking & Talking” (MWAT) is a grassroots movement across the UK offering friendly, no-pressure walks for men to chat, connect and support mental health.
The idea came from founder Dan Reid, who after seasons of anxiety and depression decided to start walks in his community, and the concept spread.
The Solihull branch follows the same spirit: weekly walks (typically Thursday evenings), with no registration or pressure to talk.
Some men walk in comfortable silence; others find they open up naturally as the steps add up. The emphasis is on connection, not therapy.
Why walking helps
A growing body of evidence suggests that walk-and-talk therapy or peer walking groups can succeed where more formal settings struggle, especially with men.
A qualitative study into men’s experiences found that peer support groups offer shared understanding, mutual respect, and reduce isolation.
Walking side by side removes the need for direct eye contact and makes conversation feel more organic rather than forced.
For many participants, the walk is a soft entry point into deeper reflection or seeking further help.
Connection takes many forms
Connection doesn’t only happen face-to-face.
In an increasingly digital world, many people find comfort, community and distraction online, whether through gaming, shared hobbies, or entertainment platforms.
For instance, some use WDW Bingo for safe, light-hearted fun or niche communities built around online entertainment, while others explore spaces like WDW’s casino hub to learn about new trends and responsible play.
Online spaces can provide a sense of belonging, especially for those who might not yet feel ready to open up in person. They can be a first step – a bridge between isolation and connection.
But for many in Solihull, real change often begins offline.
Local initiatives like Men Walking & Talking offer the chance to step away from screens, breathe in crisp fresh air, and share honest conversations in person.
The two worlds don’t need to compete – both digital and physical spaces can play a part in helping men reconnect, heal, and feel less alone.
Local support in Solihull and Birmingham
If you’re in the Solihull area and looking for support, there are several services and resources:
Birmingham & Solihull Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust (BSMHFT) offers comprehensive mental health care locally and operates a 24/7 help line: call 0800 915 9292 / 0121 262 3555. Birmingham Solihull Mental Health Trust
You can also text “SPACE” to 85258 to connect with confidential, free support any time. Birmingham Solihull Mental Health Trust
Oasis Mental Health Support (Solihull) provides local counselling, drop-in groups, social activities and help navigating everyday challenges. oasismentalhealthsupport.org.uk
For more structured therapy, Living Well UK offers free services in Birmingham & Solihull with therapists and mental health support. Living Well UK
The Central Birmingham Wellbeing Hub (part of the Birmingham & Solihull Wellbeing Hubs) offers safe in-person spaces for advice and guidance (for those aged 18+ in the region). Birmingham Mind
If you need urgent help, dial 111 and choose the mental health option. Birmingham Solihull Mental Health Trust
These resources exist so anyone in crisis or needing support doesn’t feel alone.
How to join or start a walk
Joining a MWAT walk is simple: show up, walk, and talk – or just walk. No obligation. No judgment.
If there is no local group near you, MWAT encourages members to start their own walk in their area. The movement is peer-led, meaning local community members can become walk leaders to help grow the local network.
A small step can change everything
Men’s mental health is a quiet crisis, but one with solutions rooted in community, connection, and simple acts. A weekly walk, a few shared steps, a conversation that starts with “how’s your week?” can be the spark someone needs.
If you’re in Solihull or surrounding areas, consider joining the next walk. If you’re struggling, reach out to the contacts above, even if just to say “I’m not okay.” You’re not alone.
