As part of RVA’s celebration of Befriending Week 2026, we are highlighting some of those who are making a difference in combating loneliness and social isolation, helping build connections and making Reading a friendlier place.  In the following article, John Ward shares his journey from participant to co-leader of  Reading’s Men Walking and Talking group. 

Kenny (L) & John (R) Co-leaders of Reading Men Walking and Talking Group

How did you become involved?

In 2019, I went through some life-changing events, and therapy became part of my recovery. But joining Reading Men Walking and Talking (MWAT) in 2024 helped me take the next step. Week by week, the walks and conversations made a real difference, and I gradually found I could open up in ways I never had before.

I wanted more men to benefit from the group, so I started encouraging others to attend. In summer 2025, I had the opportunity to become a co-leader alongside Kenny. We now have between 15 and 30 men attending our Monday evening walks.

What volunteering do you do and what does it involve?

Kenny and I run Reading MWAT, which is built on a simple idea: conversation saves lives. Every Monday evening, men from all walks of life meet at Tilehurst Triangle to walk, talk and support each other.

There’s no judgement or pressure, just a safe space to connect and share experiences. Sometimes, walking side by side makes difficult conversations a little easier. We want to improve men’s mental health, break down stigma and build a community where everyone feels welcome.

Why do you volunteer?

If I can help others through my own experiences, then that’s a positive outcome. Too many men struggle in silence. We’re brought up to keep a lid on things, get on with it and not make a fuss, which can leave us feeling alone with problems that might feel lighter if we shared them.

I’ve seen how much difference it makes when a man gets the chance to be honest about how he’s doing, and someone simply listens.

I wanted to help the group grow so more men could experience those benefits. Showing up every Monday means that anyone who needs support knows there’s a place to go.

What do you get from volunteering?

Honestly, I get as much out of Monday evenings as anyone who turns up. Volunteering gives me a sense of purpose and supports my own mental health. Knowing that a simple walk can make someone’s week a little lighter is a great feeling.

Watching someone arrive quiet and leave feeling better is an achievement, and having a walk with good people to look forward to each week makes a difference to me, too.

What difference do you think your volunteering makes?

I’m not going to change the world, but we can make a small difference with one conversation at a time, and sometimes that’s all it takes.

We’ve supported men experiencing abusive relationships, marriage breakdowns, depression, loneliness, isolation and addiction, including gaming and alcohol. For others, the group is an opportunity to meet new people, make friends and get more active. Just as importantly, men can realise they’re not alone in what they’re going through and feel more comfortable reaching out for further support.

I hope our group encourages others to take that first step, whether that’s joining us, checking in on a mate or starting something of their own.

Doing something is always better than doing nothing

Being a volunteer with MWAT can be life-changing for you, as well as for others.

Interested in joining Reading MWAT?

Find out more about our group, including where we meet, on the Men Walking and Talking website.