The Mortgage Industry Mental Health Charter (MIMHC) is hosting its third annual 144-mile Walk & Talk challenge from 10-15 May. And as we reveal today there are now 72 participants from across the mortgage sector taking part.

The six-day initiative will follow the Grand Union Canal, with individuals joining for different stages of the route. Participants, referred to as “Leggers”, will walk together while engaging in open discussions around mental health and wellbeing.

The event is led by Jason Berry, group sales director at Crystal Specialist Finance and co-founder of the Mortgage Industry Mental Health Charter, who will complete the full route.

Over the next fortnight Mortgage Soup will be firing the questions at both sponsors and those taking part.

Today, Darrell Walker (main picture, inset), group sales director at Chetwood Bank, is in the spotlight.

MS: What made you want to support and be part of the Walk and Talk initiative/event?

Walk and Talk is about raising awareness and recognising that mental health in our industry is a serious issue that needs to be discussed openly and frankly.

The mortgage world can often be fast-paced, high-pressure and emotionally charged, and too many people quietly carry that weight on their own.

Walk and Talk creates a space where we can step away from our screens, get together face-to-face and make opportunities for the kinds of conversations that we don’t always have time for.

It’s important to remember that it’s not just about this one event. Walk and Talk can’t provide all the solutions and conversations about mental health need to be had industry-wide, but it’s a great place to start!

MS: From your perspective, what are the biggest challenges brokers/clients are facing right now with their mental health and wellbeing?

 The biggest challenge brokers and their clients are facing is having to navigate their way through one of the most turbulent financial environments in recent years.

It’s no surprise that the uncertainty and emotional strain it’s putting everyone under is taking a real toll on wellbeing across the sector.

MS: What is your organisation doing to better support your staff and the wider market and how will activities like this help the industry move forward?

 I’m fortunate to work for an organisation that places colleague welfare at the top of their list of priorities. Chetwood Bank knows that supporting mental health isn’t just a ‘nice to have’ – it’s essential for a healthy, sustainable workforce.

This includes regular check-ins, mental-health awareness sessions and making sure managers feel supported. We’re committed to being part of an industry-wide shift toward better wellbeing, including getting involved with initiatives like Walk and Talk which helps to normalise conversations about mental health.

MS: What’s one practical insight or piece of advice you would offer brokers or people working on the mortgage sector right now?

Your wellbeing is your most valuable asset. When you look after it, everything else – your decision-making, your client relationships and your resilience – will follow.

We work hard, we put the hours in, but it’s important to remember to look after yourself and to regularly check in with your family and friends.

MS: Looking ahead, what trends or changes would you like to see in the next 12–24 months?

 I’d like to see the industry move towards a healthier work/life balance. With that in mind, it would be great to see more shared initiatives, more open conversations and more cross-industry support. Events like Walk and Talk show what’s possible when the sector comes together for a common purpose.

MS: Finally, what does success from this initiative/event look like for you?

 If just one person who attends the event goes away feeling better about things, more connected and a little more heard, then Walk and Talk has done its job.

And if it sparks wider conversations and greater collaboration across the sector, then even better!