Chichester Walk Leader
Why did you become a Mental Health Mates Walk Leader?
I struggle with anxiety and when I moved to Chichester, I really wanted to set up a peer-support group in the local community where I could meet new people in a friendly, supportive environment. I attended a Mental Health Mates anniversary walk in London with my family and thought it was such a brilliant initiative. I decided to start one up in my local area and haven’t looked back!
How has being a part of the community positively impacted your life and mental health?
I have loved being part of the Mental Health Mates community, the fellow Walk Leaders are incredibly lovely and supportive. Hosting our monthly walks has helped to develop my confidence and provided an opportunity to meet amazing members of the local community.
In addition, being part of an Instagram Live with Bryony Gordon during Lockdown, discussing our Chichester walks and eating disorders was such a highlight for me.
What advice would you offer for someone who wants to get involved with MHM?
I would really recommend getting involved with Mental Health Mates, it is one of the best things I have ever done. The first couple of walks may seem daunting at first but taking each walk as it comes and talking to fellow walk leaders and the amazing team at Mental Health Mates makes such a difference!
Where do you take your MHM walking groups and what happens on a walk?
Every month, I meet attendees at the Market Cross in Chichester and walk around the City walls for approximately an hour. It’s a great circular route, Chichester is surrounded by lots of beautiful parks – we are really lucky!
