A powerful new partnership in Calne is giving hope and support to men struggling with their mental health.
The men's walk and talk group was originally launched by local resident Sean Broomhall in March and was inspired by the tragic loss of his close friend to suicide. Determined to create a safe and informal space for men to share their struggles, Sean began a weekly walk through Calne for anyone needing support or companionship.
Sean front and Leigh centre
Now, the group has grown – and so has its mission. Local man Leigh Randell has joined forces with Sean to help run the walk and expand its reach by affiliating with the national Men Walking and Talking organisation.
Leigh, 49, knows first-hand how vital a listening ear can be. Following a serious car crash in July 2023, he suffered multiple physical injuries, including hearing loss and spinal damage. But it was the silent weight of emotional trauma that took the deepest toll.
“I was surviving on two hours of sleep a night. I was angry, exhausted, and felt I had nothing left to give my family,” Leigh explained. “By the end of January this year, I drove to the Brecon Beacons intending to take my own life. I’d even written the note and chosen a place where my wife and daughter wouldn’t find me. But in that moment, I had a vision of my nan telling me to stop. That moment saved me.”
What followed was a journey back from the brink, supported by the RUH’s intensive mental health team, counselling from the Fix Radio Foundation, and a powerful desire to get well – for himself, his family, and others going through the same thing.
“When I started walking with Sean’s group, I saw how much potential it had – but also how much support it needed,” Leigh said. “We’ve now become an official part of the national Men Walking and Talking organisation, which means proper safeguarding policies, mental health first aid training, and access to wider support networks.”
This week, both Sean and Leigh completed accredited mental health first aid training and now co-lead the weekly walk, which takes place every Wednesday.
On Wednesday 23rd July, several Calne Town Councillors joined the group for their evening walk to show their support. The walk covered 4.5 miles, with councillors spending time talking to every participant.
Leigh said: “Thank you from the bottom of my heart to all the guys who walked with us, and to Sean who bravely shared why he started the group. Thank you also to the town councillors for their time, understanding, and presence—it really meant a lot.”
Cllr Sam Pearce-Kearney, who works in NHS mental health services, told Calne News: “Being invited to walk and talk with this group was a true honour. I know firsthand the importance of open conversation. It was lovely to see how this group has created a safe and welcoming space for men to walk, connect, share, and support each other.”
Cllr Mike Sankey added: “The whole group were friendly and welcoming. I was so taken with the experience that I joined them again this week and will do so again. This is yet another group that exemplifies the great community spirit we are blessed to have in Calne.”
Cllr Celia Stevens also commended the grassroots initiative: “It was really good to see members of the community taking a positive step to meet a need. I’m especially pleased that members are receiving training and setting up proper safeguarding. I wish the group every success and hope they will continue to feel supported.”
Another councillor who joined in the walk was Cllr Aitch King who told us: "I was very pleased to be included in the invitation to join the Men Walking & Talking group. Men's mental health is an important issue, and this group is an excellent way to highlight and combat the issue on a local level. I spoke with many of the members there that evening, including Leigh himself, some of the conversations were enlightening, and it was clear that this really is an important group doing great work. I look forward to seeing what the group accomplishes. "
Now officially part of the national Men Walking and Talking organisation, the Calne group is looking to continue growing—providing a lifeline to more local men who may be quietly struggling.
For details about how to join a walk or get involved, visit: https://www.facebook.com/groups/627292266763770
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