A walking group in Penrith is helping men feel less alone with their mental health by connecting them with other people who share similar experiences. 

Men Walking and Talking in Penrith is a weekly group that brings men together to talk about what they're going through by getting them out and about in the town's beautiful surroundings.

It's an opportunity for men to take a positive step for their mental health and to fight the stigma that they experience in regards to this. 

Christopher Edwards, who set-up the group, said: "I wanted men to know it's ok to talk about their feelings and to connect with others so they can have some support around them. 

"I felt the group could help men feel less alone with their mental health and by having a social and supportive space they could share their experiences or meet other men on similar paths.

"When I worked in mental health services, I saw that a large number of men found it difficult to express their emotions and this representation of men needing to be strong and from a young age being told to 'man up' and get on with things."

The group, which has been running for six months, meets every Thursday at 6.30pm outside Sainsbury's supermarket in Penrith.

The social support and sense of connection experienced by the men taking part in the walks is already having a positive effect on them.

Christopher added: "It's good to see already how it provides social support and a sense of connection, the men are walking alongside each other and sharing their stories and experiences.

"It's also shown that walking as a regular physical activity can help to reduce stress, lower anxiety, calm their emotions and in return increase self esteem. It also can make people feel more energized and improve their mood and promote a more positive sense of well-being.

"We are very lucky in Penrith to be able to take advantage of the amazing nature we have surrounding us. Spending time in nature shifts our internal focus and helps us appreciate the things we have around us."

Anybody who would like to join but feels apprehensive or nervous is encouraged to contact Christopher by emailing christopher.edwards.uk@gmail.com to find out more information.