Two Sandwell councillors are taking on a walking challenge later this week to raise awareness of men’s mental health.
Councillor Jackie Taylor, Cabinet Member for Adult Services and Health and Wellbeing, and Old Warley Councillor Luke Cotterill are taking on a six-park, three-day walking challenge to mark Men’s Health Week.
The challenge involves them walking between six parks across Sandwell over three days, with a one hour community walk at each park, culminating in a community event with lots of family activities on Father’s Day (Sunday 15 June) at West Smethwick Park.
Councillor Taylor said: “We’re standing shoulder to shoulder and walking for men’s mental health.
“Focussing on and supporting men’s mental health is a priority for us as a council. Eighty-eight per cent of Sandwell men who took part in a consultation last year told us they felt like they couldn’t talk to anyone about mental health. And suicide is the most common cause of death in men under 50 in the UK.
“We’ll be completing the challenge over three days, and we’re looking forward to seeing lots of people join in and walking with us to raise awareness.”
Councillor Cotterill added: “We’re excited to be taking on this challenge to mark Men’s Health Month and raise awareness of the support available for men struggling with their mental health.
“We would love for people to join us on the challenge by taking part in a one-hour walk in our parks. These walks provide an opportunity not only to enjoy the outdoors and promote wellbeing, but also to engage directly with local councillors and our staff to learn more about mental health services and the support available.”
The one-hour community walks are as follows:
Friday 13 June
• Victoria Park, Tipton – Meet at the War Memorial at approximately 10.30am
• Brunswick Park, Wednesbury – Meet at the Play Area at approximately 1.30pm
Saturday 14 June
• Dartmouth Park, West Bromwich – Meet at the Visitors’ Centre for a 10.30am set off.
• Britannia Park, Rowley Regis – Meet at the multi-use games area by the car park of B4171 at approximately 1.30pm.
Sunday 15 June
• Lightwoods Park – Meet at Lightwoods House for a 10.30am set off
• West Smethwick Park – Meet at The Pavilion at approximately 1pm plus activities in the park including street games, learn to ride a bike with British Cycling, wellbeing and volunteering information and family activities from 2pm until 4pm.