Hitchin walk and talk event spotlights men’s mental health challenges

PRESS RELEASE FROM ALISTAIR STRATHERN MP

MONDAY 19^th JANUARY 2026

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Alistair Strathern, MP for the Hitchin constituency, led a 4.5km walk on Saturday morning in Hitchin as part of his campaigning for greater focus and discussion of men’s mental health. The event brought together men and local walking groups to encourage open conversations, connection, and early support around men’s wellbeing.

Despite the chilly Saturday 8am start, the event saw 50 turn out from across the constituency and beyond. The 4.5‑kilometre walk was designed to highlight the 4.5‑year life‑expectancy gap faced by men. The symbolic distance served as a reminder of the importance of talking early, checking in, and creating spaces where men feel comfortable discussing mental health challenges.

Dozens of Labour MPs across the country also held similar 4.5km events in their constituencies over the weekend, as part of work by MPs convened by Strathern to highlight particular challenges faced by men, and ensure these receive the attention they deserve from politicians and policymakers.

Strathern was joined by the local rambling society, local men’s groups, dads and members of the Hitchin community.

In Parliament, Strathern is a Co-Chair of the Labour Group for Men and Boys. Their aim is to improve men’s wellbeing and help promote positive masculinity. This was the first of their planned events.

Alistair Strathern MP said:

“As men, we aren’t always great at speaking up about issues affecting us or checking in on mates as often as we could.

“The statistics on men’s mental health highlight that this comes at a stark cost. It’s vital we all play our part to tackle this.

“That’s why open, welcoming spaces, where they we talk openly, listen, and support each other are so important.

“It was fantastic to be joined by so many, including some inspiring local groups that already do so much to create these important spaces for their community.

“I’m glad the Government is determined to tackle the stigma around men’s mental health through its men’s health strategy, and I am determined to play my part in ensuring we do. This event was just the first, and I am excited to keep building on it.”

Notes for Editors

You can see an image from the walk, attached.

You can also find a post by Strathern following the walk, here