The Mortgage Industry Mental Health Charter (MIMHC) is set to host its third annual 144-mile Walk & Talk challenge from 10-15 May, with participants from across the mortgage sector expected to take 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.
He will be joined throughout the challenge by Charlie Morley, mortgage distribution director at Metro Bank.
The Walk & Talk challenge has become an established fixture in the industry’s wellbeing calendar. Last year’s event raised just under £20,000 for mental health initiatives, and organisers are aiming to exceed that total in 2026.
A number of lenders and sector firms are supporting this year’s event. Foundation Home Loans is acting as headline sponsor, with additional backing from Nottingham Building Society, Moda Mortgages / CHL Mortgages, The Moving Portal and All Money Matters.
The sponsorship will cover all operational costs associated with the challenge, including accommodation, catering, medical supplies and event materials. As a result, all funds raised through the associated campaign will go directly towards the work of the Mortgage Industry Mental Health Charter.
POSITIVE IMPACT ON WELLBEING
Jason Berry said: “Walk & Talk was created to encourage people to step away from their desks, get moving and have open conversations about mental health.
“Physical movement, fresh air and shared experiences can have a hugely positive impact on wellbeing, and it’s fantastic to see so many people across the mortgage industry continuing to support this initiative.
“We raised just under £20k in 2025 and the aim is to go beyond that this year”
Morley added: “I’m really proud to be joining Jason for the full six days this year. It’s an excellent initiative that brings the industry together, encourages honest conversations about mental health and highlights the importance of taking time to look after both our physical and mental wellbeing.”
DRIVING CHANGE
Alan Davison, chief commercial officer at Foundation Home Loans, said: “We’re incredibly proud to support the Walk & Talk challenge as headline sponsor.
“The work being done by the Mortgage Industry Mental Health Charter is hugely important for our industry, and initiatives like this not only raise vital funds but also encourage people to prioritise their wellbeing.
“Bringing people together through physical activity and open conversation is a powerful way to drive positive change.”
Participants will join different stages of the route over the six days, combining physical activity with discussion around resilience, mental health and workplace wellbeing.
The initiative is intended to raise funds while also encouraging professionals across the sector to incorporate movement and open conversation into their day-to-day working lives.
Funds raised will support the ongoing work of the Mortgage Industry Mental Health Charter, including efforts to expand awareness, resources and support across the mortgage sector.
