It’s great to see a real sense of momentum building around men’s support for mental health in and around Ripon. More spaces are opening where men can connect, whether that’s through walking, talking over a brew, or getting stuck into practical projects.

One of the newest additions is ‘Men Walking and Talking’, which has recently launched in Ripon thanks to local leader Alan. It’s part of a wider UK movement that started in 2021 and has steadily grown into a network of 85 groups across the UK.

In Ripon, the group meets every Wednesday at 6:30pm outside Ripon Town Hall. There’s no booking, no cost, and no pressure to open-up. The group simply walk for about an hour at a steady pace and take things as they come, you can chat if you want to or just walk and listen. The idea is to ease isolation and create space where conversation happens naturally, without expectation.

Alan, who started the Ripon group after dealing with his own mental health challenges, has kindly shared his own thoughts with us –

“I think men struggle to talk about their mental health; I know I do.

I rarely talk about my anxiety with anyone, even those close to me, and when I do, they don’t understand if they are not going through it themselves.

I started the Men Walking and Talking group in Ripon as I’ve struggled with my own mental health and still battle social anxiety – I wanted to support other men who suffer with isolation, loneliness or are fighting their own battles…and help myself too.

Some men just need fresh air, company and an hour out of their routine to chill out and chat to other like minded men … there’s no need to talk about mental health on the walks and no commitment to come every week.

The walks are a safe space to open up and chat if you decide to, you’ll be talking to others who really get it.

We are consistent – we show up and walk whatever the weather every Wednesday night starting at 6.30pm outside Ripon Town Hall.

We get fitter, get our steps in and improve our mental health.

There is a big need for this across the UK, GPs are recommending our groups to support men who are struggling. 

Search for “Men Walking and Talking” on Facebook, Instagram or visit our website to find out more” Men Walking & Talking | Mental Health Walks UK

With the longer evenings and warmer weather, there is no better time to enjoy the great outdoors and meet some new people, who might be able to help lighten the load. But if walking really isn’t your thing, there are other ways to connect in and around Ripon.

Andy’s Man Club offers a very different setting but with the same core value: a safe space to talk. The Ripon group meets every Monday evening from 7:00 – 9:00pm at Ripon Bowling Club. It’s informal and welcoming, usually involving a chat over a brew and biscuits.

Then there’s Ripon Men’s Shed, which takes a more practical approach. It’s a workshop-style community space where people can come together to work on projects, learn new skills and just enjoy some company.

The Shed is fully equipped for woodworking, but most practical crafts can be undertaken or you can simply drop in for a cup of tea with fellow members. Open Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday from 9:30am – 2:00pm, paid memberships are available if you wish to join but newcomers are welcome to drop in and see what it’s all about before making any decisions.

What’s clear across all of these groups is that there isn’t just one way to connect and support doesn’t have to be formal or complicated. Sometimes it’s just about turning up, being around others, and letting conversation happen when it feels right.

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