Volunteer Walk-Leader

Being a Walk Leader involves a regular commitment as you will be taking responsibility for one of the main objectives of our group: leading a local walking group. With this in mind, these are the activities involved in being a Walk Leader: 

• Lead a local walking group, being a point of contact for the walking group participants. 
• Be able and willing to be facilitating a walking group at least once monthly
  • ​We understand that you may be working full-time and have a family life, so please consider carefully if this level of commitment is right for you,
  • You may only be able to commit to once a month; this is okay, as long as it can be the same day/time each month and this can be evenings or weekends, for example,
  • We want our Group Leaders to take ownership of this as long as it works for you and the participants who attend,
  • It is important that if for any reason you cannot make it to lead a walking group you are able to ensure there is someone able to step in for you.
• Being prepared to provide advice and guidance regarding any concerns, within the limitations outlined below (see section below on what volunteers should not do) 
• Being willing to interact with and, if needed, offer support to other Group Leaders 

Important thoughts on our volunteer roles 

MenWalkTalk has been set up to offer opportunities for men with mental health issues to come together and feel no pressure or stigma about discussing their issues with other men. 

Supporting men with mental health issues is at its core, and it may help you in your volunteering if you too have lived experience of a mental health problem, either personally or from a close relative or friend. It will also help if you have an open, non-judgemental attitude, and that you are able to adopt a positive, patient and supportive approach towards supporting people with mental health problems. 

We would like you understand that whatever role you are able to volunteer for, when representing MenWalkTalk volunteers should at all times behave in a professional, confidential and non-discriminatory manner at all times, and promote equal opportunities for all. 

What a MenWalkTalk Walk Leader should not do 

MenWalkTalk is about getting more people walking, benefiting from the physical, social and mental wellbeing benefits that come from walking and talking. 

Within their volunteer roles, MenWalkTalk Campaigners and Walk Leaders should not offer to provide individual or emergency support for people experiencing mental health problems or in crisis. There are lots of people and organisations who can help, and MenWalkTalk Campaigners and Walk Leaders will be provided with information and guidance on signposting anyone to access the necessary support. 

Similarly, unless they are qualified to do so MenWalkTalk Campaigners and Group Leaders won’t provide therapeutic or coaching advice. Again, you will be provided with information on directing anyone to the appropriate support. 

More About MenWalkTalk:

Mission

To provide support to any adult male, whether they may have experienced, or are experiencing, a mental health issue or not. To listen to them, support them, walk with them and signpost them to specialist support where appropriate.  We want to raise the awareness of mental health issues that men currently face, promoting a better understanding of this area. 

Vision

“For men to feel able to speak out, feel heard, understood and supported. To promote a positive change in people’s lives through mutual support and advice”

Values

Welcoming; We understand it can be difficult, we are here for you. Approachable; We are available without judgement. Partnership; We understand there is strength in numbers and will support you to further support. Positive; We will try to find the positive in every situation.