Power crew help charity cutting a path to better men’s mental health
A tranquil walking trail designed to help men open up about hidden mental health struggles is taking shape in Sittingbourne, supported by local power workers.
UK Power Networks teamed up with Mentalk Health Sittingbourne, to work on the project at the charity’s nature retreat on the outskirts of Sittingbourne. They cleared brambles, edged pathways and made dry hedges.
The charity found men who are struggling with mental health issues will share their inner turmoil more readily while walking. The trail will feature plaques with thoughtful words of encouragement, to start conversations, connections and support.
Jason Firmager, the visionary founder, CEO and driving force behind Mentalk Health Sittingbourne, said: “The team did an amazing job on the land and it was beautiful to see them bonding while they worked. They showed up with heart, worked hard, and made a real difference.
“Since the pandemic, we’ve done a huge amount of work around men’s mental health, because so many are still silently struggling. Everyone needs a different outlet – whether it’s our walking group, arts and crafts, talking circles, fitness, education or working the land.
“Mental health affects the whole family, including children, so we also involve partners and create the sense of community people have lost. No one should have to face it alone.”
Mentalk Health Sittingbourne has supported hundreds of men and prevented suicides. It runs weekly talking groups, outdoor activities, meals, meditation, outreach, and a confidential 24/7 crisis support system.
UK Power Networks staff volunteered with Mentalk Health Sittingbourne through Donate a Day, which gives employees two paid days annually for charity work. With men currently making up the majority of the UK power industry, the team wanted to shine a light on men's mental health and improve access to help.
Christian Paredes, one of the volunteers from UK Power Networks’ highway services team, said: “It was an amazing day! It was fantastic to come together as a team for such a worthwhile cause. Despite the wet weather, everyone gave their best and the results were incredible – truly A quality!
“We had plenty of laughs along the way, met some great people, and seeing the transformation from start to finish was so rewarding. There were a few aching muscles afterwards, but it was absolutely worth it – I’d do it all again in a heartbeat!”
To find out more visit www.mentalk-health.org.
Published: 19/11/2025
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UK Power Networks teamed up with Mentalk Health Sittingbourne, to work on the project at the charity’s nature retreat on the outskirts of Sittingbourne. They cleared brambles, edged pathways and made dry hedges.
The charity found men who are struggling with mental health issues will share their inner turmoil more readily while walking. The trail will feature plaques with thoughtful words of encouragement, to start conversations, connections and support.
Jason Firmager, the visionary founder, CEO and driving force behind Mentalk Health Sittingbourne, said: “The team did an amazing job on the land and it was beautiful to see them bonding while they worked. They showed up with heart, worked hard, and made a real difference.
“Since the pandemic, we’ve done a huge amount of work around men’s mental health, because so many are still silently struggling. Everyone needs a different outlet – whether it’s our walking group, arts and crafts, talking circles, fitness, education or working the land.
“Mental health affects the whole family, including children, so we also involve partners and create the sense of community people have lost. No one should have to face it alone.”
Mentalk Health Sittingbourne has supported hundreds of men and prevented suicides. It runs weekly talking groups, outdoor activities, meals, meditation, outreach, and a confidential 24/7 crisis support system.
UK Power Networks staff volunteered with Mentalk Health Sittingbourne through Donate a Day, which gives employees two paid days annually for charity work. With men currently making up the majority of the UK power industry, the team wanted to shine a light on men's mental health and improve access to help.
Christian Paredes, one of the volunteers from UK Power Networks’ highway services team, said: “It was an amazing day! It was fantastic to come together as a team for such a worthwhile cause. Despite the wet weather, everyone gave their best and the results were incredible – truly A quality!
“We had plenty of laughs along the way, met some great people, and seeing the transformation from start to finish was so rewarding. There were a few aching muscles afterwards, but it was absolutely worth it – I’d do it all again in a heartbeat!”
To find out more visit www.mentalk-health.org.
Published: 19/11/2025
Back to news