IT IS a problem widely known but rarely spoken about.
Which is partly why one man decided to address the problem of mental health within ex-servicemen and women with a monthly walk in Bournemouth’s Meyrick Park.
Taking place on the last Saturday of each month, a group of ex-servicemen and women called Jamie’s Gang spend an hour walking the park, chatting, laughing and having a good time before ending on a free breakfast in the rugby club.
Bob Perry started the walk during lockdown after hearing how ex-rifleman and East Dorset Rugby Club player Jamie Davis took his life in 2020 after struggling with PTSD.
Ex-army man Mr Perry said: “Although this walk is about suicide, it’s also about mental health. A lot of people here still have mental health issues.
“Especially for the men, it’s about talking about it in a format like this, as we walk. You can joke, talk, laugh, whatever.
Read more: Here's where to go if you're a veteran in Dorset and you need support
“But deep down if somebody does want to talk to me about their mental health, they can.
“We are joined by two women from the armed forces health and wellbeing team who are both ex-army and now work for the NHS.”
Anybody is welcome to join Jamie’s Gang for a walk and people of all ages who have served from pre-Falklands to as recent as Afghanistan take part.
Mr Perry, who wanted to express his gratitude to Oakmeadian’s Rugby Club and its chairwoman Jane, who has adopted the gang as its charity, encouraging more people to join the gathering.
Read more: Former rifleman Jamie Davis took his own life after PTSD struggles
Sarah Beasley, who served in Afghanistan when she was 18, said: “I didn’t know most of these people but I go swimming with them during the week and it has been nice to get to know them over time and get out of your shell.
“It’s lovely, we have our own little group and everybody has something to bring to the table and, even if you haven’t done what they have done, you still have something in common.”
Two Dorset Healthcare workers, who also used to serve in the army, joined the gang for a walk on Saturday, March 25.
One of them, Charlotte, said: “The more we raise awareness about mental health, the better. The group is all ages, but it affects more middle-aged men than most. They’re the ones who talk about it the least.
“It’s good for people’s mental health to go out in the fresh air and have a walk.”
Anybody thinking about taking part can contact Bob on 07785 275150.
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