Solent Original Walks: Portsmouth walks aim to help support mental health as well as giving exercise
A Portsmouth resident has launched a series of community walks designed to raise awareness of mental health and support suicide prevention efforts across the local area.
John Grant, founder of Solent Original Walks, created the initiative a couple of years ago as a charity fundraiser and a way to support organisations working in mental health and suicide prevention. The project was inspired by personal tragedy, after Grant and his family lost their daughter Grace several years ago.
Speaking about the motivation behind the initiative, John said his goal is to help families and individuals affected by mental health challenges while supporting charities working in the field.
“We want to try and help families and anybody involved in mental health and wellbeing,” he said. “It’s about improving communication and providing a resource that people can use when they’re looking for activities that bring people together.”
The initiative, called Mental Health Monday Walks, will take place in Portsmouth and offers guided walks through the city that combine local history with open discussions around wellbeing.
The walks begin at the statue of Admiral Lord Nelson at Grand Parade and will run three times each Monday at 10am, 2pm and 6pm. Organisers say the flexible schedule is designed to allow people to attend before work, during the day or in the evening. John is also encouraging local employers to take part by promoting the walks as a wellbeing activity for staff.
Participants will explore parts of Portsmouth while learning about the lives and histories connected to Nelson and his family. Along the way, the small group setting aims to create a comfortable environment where people can talk, share experiences and discuss mental health in an open and supportive way.
John said the walks offer more than just exercise and history.
“It’s about coming together, having a good walk, learning some history, and having conversations about issues people may be facing,” he said.
By linking historical storytelling with modern discussions around mental health, the initiative hopes to encourage openness and provide a supportive space for people in the community. Organisers hope the walks will not only raise funds for local charities but also help break down the stigma around mental health by encouraging honest conversations in a relaxed, outdoor setting.