Welwyn Garden City Walk Leader
Why did you become a Mental Health Mates Walk Leader?
I attended the walk in Welwyn Garden City as a chance to get out and communicate with new people. While there, I saw how grateful everyone was that such a group existed, and I wanted to become a leader so that I could help make a difference in people’s lives.
How has being a part of the community positively impacted your life and mental health?
Being a walk leader has allowed me to meet new people and make new friends. I also feel more confident in general when speaking to new people and I just feel happier in general. I’m very grateful to everyone I’ve met during my time as a walk leader.
What advice would you offer for someone who wants to get involved with MHM?
I would suggest going to the nearest MHM walk and talking to the leader there for tips. I would also say that when you start organising walks, try not to get too focused on the amount of people that show up to the walks. Even if only one person shows up, that can make a big difference to them.
Where do you take your MHM walking groups and what happens on a walk?
I lead the walks along with walk Leader Nikki in WGC and we alternate between Stanborough Lake and Sherrardspark Wood. We usually walk around and have a nice chat before stopping at a café for a drink. People sometimes talk about their struggles with mental health, but we don’t force anyone to open up unless they want to.
