A SOLIHULL group that was born out of frustration at the lack of local support options for men is set to mark its first anniversary.
Danny Smith took the initiative to create a simple but powerful forum – a free, weekly opportunity for men to walk and talk for approximately an hour.
And despite a torrential downpour on the very first night of Solihull’s Men Walking and Talking, the five attendees pressed on, unsure if the concept would take off.
For many men, reaching out to strangers, forming new friendships, and discussing personal struggles can be daunting.
As the group has seen, it often takes several months for someone to pluck up the courage to attend their first walk. But once they do, they keep coming back.
Over the past year, Solihull’s Men Walking and Talking has fostered a culture of togetherness, inclusivity, and brotherhood, becoming one of the area’s most successful and consistent support outlets.
Whether men attend weekly or drop in during challenging times, the group provides a reliable, non-judgmental space to connect.
Consistency is key. The group meets at the same time, on the same days, at the same place every week – rain or shine – to ensure no man feels unsupported. Unique in the Men Walking and Talking network, the Solihull group runs twice-weekly sessions, attracting 40 to 60 men each week.
Danny said: “It’s been a staggering first year with so many attendees each week. I started the group in hope a few people would turn up, it never crossed my mind that we would have hundreds of guys join us every month, that we would double the amount of walks we do each week and is recognised as one of the key initiatives for supporting men within the Solihull region.
“I roughly estimated that by the anniversary walk, we would have had 3,000 attendees across the 90 walks we’ve completed.
“Whether guys are looking for friendship, exercise, an outlet to vent or struggling with a personal challenge, they have found our group to be there for their needs every week.”
Beyond regular walks, the group has hosted special events, including The Blue Heart Event for Mental Health Awareness Week, which drew over 100 attendees, trips to the Malvern Hills, talks from guest speakers, and collaborations with local charities such as The Round Table and The Cameron Grant Memorial Trust.
These initiatives have expanded the group’s impact, supporting both the local community and individual wellbeing.
The group has also welcomed visits from the Mayor and launched limited-edition t-shirts, sponsored by Solihull Summer Fest.
Several fundraisers are planned this year to continue supporting the group’s mission: helping more men, strengthening community ties, and promoting personal growth and self-worth.
Looking to the future, Danny has launched the Walk Leader Academy, a unique initiative within the Men Walking and Talking network.
It is hoped to allow members to develop into walk leaders themselves, pushing personal boundaries, deepening awareness of men’s health, and strengthening the group’s leadership for years to come.
Danny said: “Solihull’s Men Walking and Talking has proven that a simple idea – men walking and talking together – can have a profound impact.
“One year on, the group continues to grow, provide vital support, and create a sense of brotherhood that is here to stay.”
