This is the second year of the walk across the UK and is the brainchild of MIMHC founders Nicola Firth of Knowledge Bank, Andrew Montlake from Coerco, Scott Howitt from Chartwell Mortgage Services, Martin Reynolds from SimplyBiz, Rob Jupp and Will LLoyd from Brightstar, Rob Stanton from Landbay and Jason Berry of Crystal Specialist Finance.

The route begins at Digbeth in Birmingham and finishes at London Victoria and aims to raise funds and awareness and spark meaningful conversations about mental health and wellbeing in the mortgage sector, encouraging open discussions while embracing the benefits of exercise and social connection.

Jason Berry says: “I wanted to create an event where people could openly connect, share, and support each other, away from the pressures of work.

“Walking side by side breaks down barriers, and the idea of covering the Grand Union Canal route symbolises the winding and long journey many face with mental health. It’s about building community, conversation, and reminding everyone they’re not alone.”

“I’ve seen too many talented people suffer in silence in our industry. Personally, I’ve felt the pressures too, so I understand how vital support and understanding are. Professionally, we have a duty to foster healthier, more human workplaces. People can only perform at their best when they feel mentally well.”

The message Berry wants to convey is to “speak up.”

“Prioritise your wellbeing. And let’s create an industry where vulnerability is met with support, not silence. Together, we can breakdown taboo and create a stronger, more compassionate mortgage community.”

Spanning six days during Mental Health Week and covering over 140 miles, this event is more than just a physical challenge—it’s a bold and vital step in breaking the silence surrounding mental health in the Mortgage Sector.

Below, each participant shares their own story, motivation, and message.

AimieJo Shutt – national key account manager, Santander

“What MIMHC do is outstanding! Our industry is incredible, but like life, it’s full of volatility and challenges that take a toll on our wellbeing. Raising awareness and openness is game-changing.

Our mental and physical health are deeply connected, and both need care. One of my favourite quotes is from Dolly Parton: ‘If you see someone without a smile—give them yours.’ That’s my mantra. If I can help even one person feel seen, safe or happier, I’m on it like a car bonnet.

If you’re struggling—please talk. It’s hard, but it’s the first and most powerful step. And if you’re supporting someone—please listen. As my grandma would say, ‘Two ears, one mouth.’ ????”

Pete Gwilliam – Specialist Recruiter

“I became a Mental Health First Aider to support those who may be struggling, particularly with anxiety. This fits perfectly with MIMHC’s ethos.

Working from home has many benefits, but it also brings isolation. In a world obsessed with projecting confidence, especially on social media, we need to show more empathy and be less judgemental. ‘Walking and talking’ helps create safe spaces for people to be vulnerable—it’s okay not to be okay.”

Andy Frankish – chief executive, MAB Foundation

“The work MIMHC is doing is so important. This walk raises awareness of the progress made—and the work still to do.

Mental health can shift quickly and affect anyone, at any time. Finding the right support is not always easy, but we can all play a role. Knowing how to spot issues and where to signpost people could be a game-changer.”

Matt Kingston – sales director, Nottingham Building Society

Why the walk? “To learn more about mental health and better support family, friends, and colleagues.”

Why it matters: “Mental wellbeing touches everything. I’ve seen how deeply it can affect those I care about—at home and at work.”

Message to the industry: “Look out for each other. Sometimes, a simple ‘How are you?’ can make all the difference.”

Martin Sims – distribution director, Molo / ColCap UK

Motivation: “I previously walked from Reading FC to Fulham FC with CALM and have been volunteering ever since. This walk shows the unity in our industry and keeps mental health front of mind.”

Why it matters: “I’ve seen tragic consequences of poor mental health among friends and family. It’s personal.”

Message: “There is always someone to talk to. Support can come from the least expected places. A kind word or smile can go a long way.”

Richard Howes – director of mortgages, Paradigm

Why join again? “Last year’s camaraderie and honest conversations made it a no-brainer. You meet people you’d never usually cross paths with and end up discussing life, business, and everything in between.”

Why it’s important: “Mental health is your engine—it drives everything. Look after it the same way you would your physical health.”

Industry message: “Help is out there. Whether you prefer to read, listen, or talk, there’s a way to understand and manage your mental wellbeing. Massive credit to Jason and MIMHC for making that support visible.”

Alan Davison – chief commercial officer, Afin Bank

Motivation: “To raise awareness and normalise talking about mental health.”

Why it matters: “Mental health shapes how we think, feel, and act. When it’s strong, we thrive. When it’s not, even simple tasks feel impossible.”

Message: “Everyone hits rough patches. Talking has helped me—I’d encourage everyone to do the same and keep the conversation going.”

Scott Howitt – director, Chartwell Mortgage Services

Why join? “I’m a founder member. This is a brilliant cause for an industry I love. Last year’s two-day leg was unforgettable.”

Why it matters: “When I started in this industry 30 years ago, there was nothing like this—we needed it. Now it’s time to pay it forward.”

Message: “There’s always someone who will listen. No issue is too small. Our industry is brilliant at supporting one another.”

James Briggs – intermediary sales director at Afin Bank

Why join? “To help break the stigma—mental health challenges are not a weakness.”

Why it matters: “Financial services is a high-pressure environment. Acting early, before you ‘break’, is crucial.”

Message: “Don’t bottle it up. We work in a supportive industry. Talk.”

Dan Narwal – regional account manager, Together Money

Why join? “I had FOMO after seeing last year’s updates! This is a meaningful, industry-wide push on mental health.”

Why it matters: “Our industry is fast-paced and demanding. Mutual respect and support are essential.”

Message: “We all want to help our customers—so let’s also help each other. Respect and kindness make a real difference.”

Mark Montgomery – chief strategy officer, Simplify

Why join? “To support the cause and my colleague Dev Malle. We’ve tackled other challenges together, and this one matters deeply.”

Why it matters: “Over 30+ years, I’ve learned the importance of understanding and protecting mental health. It’s close to home.”

Message: “Mental wellbeing is key to long-term success and happiness. Helping others find balance is an investment in people—and our future.”

Rob Oliver – distribution director, Dudley Building Society

Why join? “After 35 years in the industry, I wanted to give back. I’ve seen people suffer in silence. This walk shows that support is available.”

Why it matters: “Our male-dominated industry hasn’t always addressed this well. Wellbeing is not weakness—it’s vital.”

Message: “Struggling doesn’t make you weak. Help is out there—you just need to ask.”

Katherine Stagg – director, Stagg Mortgage Services

Why join? “Mental health for advisers is a passion of mine. Last year’s walk was supportive and healing—for me and others.”

Why it matters: “Having supportive people at work and home makes all the difference.”

Message: “You are never alone. There’s always help. My door is always open—to listen, support, and stand beside you.”

James Prosser, commercial director, Mortgage Strategy & Mortgage Finance Gazette

Why join? “Having faced my own battles with addiction and alcoholism, I know how isolating it can feel. By joining this walk, I want to show that recovery is possible and that no one needs to suffer alone. It’s a powerful way to raise awareness and stand with others who might be silently struggling.”

Why it matters: “Mental health issues, especially addiction are far more common in our industry than people realise. The pressure to perform, to keep up appearances, can be overwhelming. This walk helps break the silence and shows that it’s okay to speak up and seek help.”

Message: “You’re not broken. You’re not alone. I’ve been there, and I promise, there’s a way forward, and people who want to walk it with you.”

Alex Beighton, head of pricing and analytics, Nottingham Building Society

Motivation: I’m a passionate advocate for openness and education around mental health, having suffered from anxiety in silence for many years before realising things are so much better when we’re open!

Why it matters: I’ve seen first hand the incredible shift in life when getting the right mental health support, which inspired me to set up the mental health network at The Nottingham.

Message: Openness and education are key, and often the person struggling with their mental health is the last person you’d expect (and from my experience, speaking to people about mental health has done nothing but good).

To donate and support the MIMHC chosen charity The Niall Stringer Foundation, click here.