According to the London Assembly Health Committee, men are far less likely than women to ask for help for their mental health. Only 32% of referrals for NHS Talking Therapies were men in 2023–24.
This May, PR, Events and Digital Marketing agency Goho is playing its part in creating a society where men feel safe asking for help.
Goho Presents: Men’s Mental Health Walks are two relaxed sessions designed to be a safe space for men to connect with each other, and to talk openly about anything they’re facing in life.
Led by Goho’s director Jon Shone, a passionate advocate for mental health, these walks aim to foster a supportive, judgment-free environment in the midst of London’s fast-paced city life.
Jon spent the early years of his career in the music industry, working with leading UK and international chart-topping artists. In 2015, he even became Musical Director for the multi-platinum-selling band One Direction, constantly keeping up with the gruelling schedules of world tours and performing regularly in front of large stadiums.
There is certainly more awareness now in the industry around mental health support for artists and musicians that are thrust into the spotlight, however – more needs to be done to ensure that the industry becomes more protected and educated on the effects of intense touring schedules and workloads for both crew and artists alike.
Jon says, “These walks are a simple way to have a non-pressured, non-judgmental chat about life’s ups and downs! Generationally many men still carry the narrative that showing emotion is a sign of being flawed or weak. We need more grassroots initiatives like this, especially in a busy and high-pressure city like London, to remind men that speaking out loud about what’s bothering them is both a way of getting to know themselves better but also they are not alone often in their thinking.
This event will also aim to raise money for CALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably). While tickets are free, attendees will have the option to donate money towards the charity.
The two lunchtime walks will take place at central London locations, offering an opportunity to step away from the workday. Each session includes complimentary refreshments, a gentle 45-minute walk through some of London’s most scenic routes and a goody bag to take home with you.
📅 Wednesday, 6 May | 1:00 pm | Hyde Park
📅 Thursday, 28 May | 1:00 pm | Blackfriars
Sign up on Eventbrite to get the meeting point details: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/goho-presents-mens-mental-health-walks-tickets-1987688495798.
