At Designs in Mind, we are fully involved in the network of local support for those of us who live with Mental Health Challenges.
We are really pleased to know that Jo Hughes has started a Mental Health Mates walk in Oswestry.
‘Founded by Bryony Gordon. Mental Health Mates is a nationwide network of volunteer-led, peer support groups that encourage people to get moving and talking for their mental health.
Groups across the UK regularly meet to walk, connect and share without fear or judgement.’
I recently met Jo at OsNosh Community Kitchen for a lunch meeting to discuss the plans she has to facilitate walks around Oswestry.
Jo has lived experience of mental health challenges and with the support of the organisation Mental Health Mates, has found the confidence to set up these much needed meet ups.
Jo’s first Mental Health Mates walk on 10th February, 2024, was hugely successful with a few folk turning up. It was lovely to meet some of Jo’s family who also came along to support her. It was a beautifully sunny day, to boot. A lovely, slow paced meandering walk from Oswestry Bus Station up to the much cherished Oswestry Hill Fort took place. I had to sadly duck out early, due to my flagging energy levels. However Jo and the rest of the group continued on to the stunning 360° views that awaited from the top of the Fort.
I asked Jo to write up here reasons for starting up these wonderful walks. Jo shared: “I recently moved back home to the Oswestry area
after living away for 12 years. I found that it’s hard to meet new people. Personally, I find exercise and having social support incredibly important for my own mental health. When I read about Bryony’s Mental Health Mates groups and discovered there wasn’t a local one, so I decided to launch it and build a community of support, love and kindness for others.
Mental Health Mates Oswestry is a peer support group where you can get some gentle exercise and connect with others. I see this group as being a safe space to make new friends, and get out in the beautiful area we live in.
The next walk is going to be on: Saturday, 9 March at 11am.
Meeting: Outside The Oswestry Memorial Hall Smithfield St, Oswestry SY11 2EG.
The route we’ll take is around Oswestry towards the River Morda, roughly 5km. It’ll be at a gentle pace and give you the chance to enjoy the scenery, talk to others and we’ll stop for a drink if you bring a flask or a bottle with you”.
If you have any questions about the walks, you can reach out to Jo by email on: mentalhealthmatesoswestry@gmail.com
The walk is open to all – adults and children from the Oswestry communities and beyond, as well as members, staff and volunteers from Designs in Mind.
We hope to see you there!
Blog Written & researched by Willow, Member & Social Media Coordinator