We are excited to announce that #runwalktalk is coming to South Derbyshire in Autumn 2026 and we would love you to join us!

Date: Thursday 12th November 2026, 11:00 – 13:00

(Set up from 10am and pack away 1pm until 2pm)

Location: Village Hall - Oakland Village, Hall Farm Road, Swadlincote, DE11 8ND

To book your stall, please complete this form:  Run Walk Talk event: Registration form for Stallholders  – Fill out form

What’s It All About?

#runwalktalk Community Events – Bringing People Together Through Movement

The idea of the #runwalktalk events is fairly simple, providing a safe and inclusive environment where absolutely anybody, people with mental or physical illness and without, runners and non-runners, active or nonactive, service providers, patients and public is welcome in one place. Breaking down barriers which might otherwise keep these groups separate.

The activities, which are tailored to who is taking part but typically consist of a walk, jog/walk or run provide the catalyst for comfortable conversation as people set off side by side, introducing themselves to each other and chatting along the way.

#runwalktalk events are all about breaking down the stigma associated with mental health, long-term health conditions, and disability by creating welcoming, inclusive spaces where everyone feels comfortable getting involved and being active in their own way.

Why We Do It

The main goal is to help people feel more connected in their community, reduce isolation, and make it easier for everyone to be active in a way that works for them. We want to:

• To provide an inclusive activity that is enjoyable for a wide range of participants.  
• Help people feel more confident talking about mental health and encourage open dialogue
• Offer the opportunity to experience the benefits of being active in nature with others
• To signpost participants to other regular activities that are available to them in their local area and to be a platform for providers of activities to promote their offerings. 
• Strengthen links between different local partners and provide a networking opportunity
• To embrace the ‘power of community’ to support, inspire and encourage regular physical activity.  

What happens on the day

The format is relaxed and flexible. We meet in a local green space, where organisations can set up information stands if they want to, to share what they do. The heart of the event is a led walk, jog-walk, jog, or run, whatever suits the group guided by friendly local volunteers. The idea is to get moving together and give people a chance to chat, connect, and enjoy being outdoors.

The physical activity serves both as a wellbeing intervention and as a natural ice-breaker to encourage informal conversations and connection. Following the activity the group convene to enjoy refreshments and cake and have to opportunity to share stories and experiences.  

Keeping It Real – Dropping the Lanyards

We’ve found these events work best when professionals and service providers take part in the activity itself. By “dropping the lanyards” during the activity and forgetting titles and roles for a while we create space for genuine, relaxed conversations. It helps build trust and breaks down barriers between community and services.

Making Connections

One of the great outcomes we’ve seen is that people often discover local organisations they didn’t know existed. These events have sparked new links between community members and services, and even helped organisations learn more about each other. It’s a simple way to build stronger community ties and more joined-up support.

In a Nutshell

#RunWalkTalk events provide a platform for inclusive, free physical activity that encourages community engagement for all, and enhances local service collaboration. They are designed to help everyone feel better, physically, mentally, and socially. By getting outside, getting active, listening and sharing what we do,  we aim to create real opportunities for connection and change.

How to get involved

Let us know if you are coming by signing up Run Walk Talk event: Registration form for Stallholders  – Fill out form

Tell everyone! The more the merrier! Everyone is welcome at #runwalktalk. These events work best when there is a good mix of community and local organisations.

If you would like more information, please just get in touch.