COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT: Walk & Talk 999: Supporting Men’s Mental Wellbeing Across the Blue Light Community

Walk & Talk 999 is a growing national movement helping men in the emergency services, NHS and military community open up about their mental health in a simple but powerful way: by walking together.

Founded in 2021 by London firefighter Dean Corney, the initiative began with one local walk in Beckenham. His goal was to create a safe, pressure-free space where men could talk if they wanted to, walk in silence if they preferred, and feel understood by others who face similar pressures.

Why the initiative continues to grow:

Walking side-by-side makes difficult conversations feel easier
Nature provides a calm and grounding environment
There is no pressure to speak or share
Men benefit from spaces free of judgement or expectation

The movement has expanded to include Walks for All, a mums’ walk and even Sauna & Talk sessions, giving more people the opportunity to connect in ways that feel natural to them.

With 75 percent of UK suicides affecting men, initiatives like Walk & Talk 999 are not just valuable, they are vital.

Today, Walk & Talk 999 has grown into a network of 21 free walks across the UK, each led by dedicated volunteers who offer their time and lived experience to support others. Behind the scenes, Becci and Rhianne help coordinate the growing movement and ensure every walk remains welcoming and accessible.

Interested in getting involved? Find out more here: www.walkandtalk999.co.uk/