One man became one walk – now Rochdale's Men Walking and Talking group hopes others will join him

A simple walk can sometimes be the first step towards changing a life.

That's the message behind Men Walking and Talking, the national Community Interest Company helping men support one another through conversation, companionship and fresh air. The organisation recently launched its Rochdale group, offering a free weekly walk where men can meet without pressure, judgement or the expectation that they have to talk if they don't want to. The walks take place every Thursday evening from Rochdale Cenotaph and are open to all men, with no booking required.

The Rochdale group's organiser recently reflected on one of the challenges facing any new community initiative – sometimes the first person to turn up is the organiser themselves. In recent weeks he has often found himself walking alone, but says he'll continue turning up each Thursday because he believes someone who needs the group will eventually come.

That quiet determination reflects the purpose of Men Walking and Talking. The organisation was founded on the belief that men often find it easier to open up while walking side by side than sitting face-to-face. There is no expectation to share personal struggles, but there is always the opportunity to chat if someone feels ready.

Research has consistently shown that regular physical activity can play an important role in supporting mental wellbeing. Walking outdoors has been linked to reduced symptoms of anxiety and depression, lower stress levels and improved mood. Spending time in nature, exercising regularly and building social connections can all contribute positively to mental health, while loneliness and social isolation are recognised risk factors for poor mental wellbeing.

For many men, however, talking about mental health remains difficult. Although attitudes have improved in recent years, stigma still prevents some people from seeking support. Organisations such as Men Walking and Talking aim to break down those barriers by creating informal spaces where conversation develops naturally rather than feeling like therapy.

The need for initiatives like this remains significant. Suicide continues to be one of the leading causes of death among men under the age of 50 in the UK, with men accounting for around three-quarters of all registered suicides nationally. Behind every statistic are families, friends and communities left dealing with unimaginable loss.

Groups such as Men Walking and Talking cannot replace professional mental health services, but they can provide something equally valuable – connection. A friendly face, a shared walk and the knowledge that someone else understands can make a real difference for people who may otherwise feel isolated.

Community is another important part of the group's mission. Beyond improving physical fitness, regular walks help people build friendships, strengthen local networks and create a sense of belonging. Many participants across the country say they first attended for the walk but kept returning because of the people they met along the way.

The Rochdale organiser hopes more local men will consider giving the group a try. There is no membership, no pressure to speak and no expectation to explain why you've come. Whether someone wants to chat openly, listen quietly or simply enjoy an evening walk with others, they are welcome.

If you are struggling with your mental health, you do not have to face it alone. If you are having thoughts of suicide or feel unable to keep yourself safe, call 999 immediately or go to your nearest Accident and Emergency department. You can also contact Samaritans free of charge on 116 123, email jo@samaritans.org, or reach out to CALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably) on 0800 58 58 58 or through its webchat service. If your situation is not an emergency but you need support, speak to your GP or contact NHS 111 for advice.

Sometimes the hardest part is taking the first step. For one Rochdale volunteer, that first step has meant walking alone while waiting for others to join him. He hopes that, before long, those solitary walks will become conversations shared with men who simply needed someone to walk beside.