TALKHUB: supporting men’s mental health through fitness

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TALKHUB C.I.C is a non-profit organisation working to improve men’s mental health across Warrington, Cheshire, and Merseyside. What started as a mental health podcast in late 2019 quickly grew into a wider initiative combining fitness and support to help men talk openly and take care of their mental well-being.

In February 2020, TALKHUB held its first ‘Men’s Walk and Talk’ event in Warrington. Men gathered to take a walk and chat about mental health in a relaxed, non-judgmental environment. When the pandemic hit, TALKHUB adapted by moving its sessions online, with virtual walk-and-talks every Saturday. Participants were encouraged to get outside, take a photo of their walk, and join a Zoom call for a chat. These virtual meet-ups helped maintain connections during a challenging time.

Since those early days, TALKHUB has hosted walks across the North West, from short strolls to more challenging hikes. A standout collaboration came in 2021 when TALKHUB worked with Everton Football Club to hold men’s mental health walks before matches, including the West Ham United fixture. These walks provide a supportive space for men to talk about mental health while taking part in a community event.

talkhub football

In addition to the walks, TALKHUB runs a football team with regular sessions, including 7-a-side and 11-a-side matches. They also play friendly games against other mental health groups in the region to raise awareness about the support available. On Friday evenings when football isn’t on, TALKHUB offers a 5K run in Warrington, aimed at getting men active in a low-pressure, welcoming environment.

Boxing for Mental Health

boxing

In 2022, TALKHUB launched its boxing programme, “A Fighting Chance,” which focuses on fitness and mental health. The programme runs twice a week for 8 weeks, teaching boxing skills while also providing mental health support. The positive changes participants have made throughout the programme have been clear, and it’s set to return in 2025 with a slightly updated format.

End-of-year activities

TALKHUB organised a Zorb football event and a men’s mental health yoga session at Hotpod Yoga in Warrington to close out the year. These activities offered a chance to have fun while promoting mental well-being, and there are plans to introduce even more events in 2025.

The 5 ways to well-being

All of TALKHUB’s activities are built around the 5 ways to well-being: learning, taking notice, giving back, being active, and connecting with others. These principles guide the organisation’s work in supporting men in the region.

For more information and to stay updated on upcoming events, follow TALKHUB on Instagram, TikTok, Bluesky, and Twitter @talkhub_.


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  1. TalkHub helped me to kick a weed habit that was holding me back in life and the support that they offer allowed me to become the best version of myself. Couldn’t begin to thank Jay and the rest of the lads involved enough. What a great thing they offer men of all backgrounds. It’s good to talk lads 🙌🏻

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