Walk Talk Action: Creating space for people to talk, connect and move forward

Walk Talk Action supports people across Stoke-on-Trent who are struggling with their mental health, helping them build confidence, connect with others and improve their wellbeing.

Based in Fenton and founded in 2019, the organisation supports people experiencing challenges including depression, anxiety and loneliness, as well as veterans and service leavers. Its approach is deliberately informal and accessible, with walking groups, drop-in sessions and a tailored 10-Step Programme providing different ways for people to access support.

The walking groups are often an important starting point. Led by experienced walk leaders, they give people an opportunity to get active, meet others and talk in a relaxed environment, while giving the team time to understand the individual and the challenges they may be facing. From there, someone may continue attending the walks, progress onto Walk Talk Action's 10-Step Programme or be directed towards other support better suited to their needs.

Much of the organisation's work also takes place at its retreat in Fenton Fields. The outdoor space provides a dedicated setting where people can step away from everyday pressures and access support.

This approach is having a tangible impact. In the 12 months to April 2026, 77 people completed the 10-Step Programme and achieved improved mental health outcomes.

Supporting the organisation behind the impact

As Walk Talk Action's reach has grown, so has the need to make sure the organisation has the resources and support behind it to continue delivering effectively.

The Coalfields Regeneration Trust has awarded Walk Talk Action £10,000 to help safeguard its existing provision. The funding covers the sessional costs of two walk leaders for 12 months, alongside contributions towards office rental, website management and volunteer costs.

While those costs might sit behind the scenes, they are an important part of making the organisation's work possible. Maintaining experienced walk leaders means groups can continue to provide a route into further support, while investment in the organisation's core running costs helps to maintain the infrastructure needed to coordinate and deliver its wider programmes.

But our support for Walk Talk Action isn't limited to funding.

Through its relationship with CRT's Regional Development Manager, the organisation has also been able to access ongoing advice and direct support as it develops. This has become an important part of the relationship and reflects the wider approach we want to take with the organisations we support.

Teri Bryce, Founding Director of Walk Talk Action said:

“I met Richard Steven’s from CRT a good few years ago now and he has been a pillar of support and has always championed what we have done.”

Every community organisation is different. Funding can remove an immediate financial barrier, but organisations can also benefit from having someone who understands their work, can talk through challenges and opportunities with them and provide practical support where it is needed.

For CRT, that means working alongside organisations rather than seeing the award of a grant as the end of our involvement.

Watch the video to hear from the Walk Talk Action team about their work, the difference it is making and how CRT's support is helping.

Could CRT support your organisation?

If you're a community organisation working in a coalfield area, becoming a CRT Support member can give you access to support designed to help your organisation develop, overcome challenges and explore new opportunities.

Find out more about CRT Support membership.