Stephen Fry lends voice to our project
National Treasure and mental health advocate Stephen Fry has voiced a pioneering ‘mindfulness walk’ to support people experiencing grief.
The free walk, created by the Sibling Support charity, is aimed at helping young people whose brother or sister has died, but is open to absolutely anyone who wants to take part.
Located at Salhouse Broad, in the heart of the Norfolk Broads National Park, walkers will spend time in stunning surroundings, experiencing waterways, wildlife and mindful moments.
The walk features a series of activities for participants to take part in, each one tackling a particular topic from coping with stress to talking about worries in a fun, and subtle, way.
Having been open about past struggles with mental health and suicidal thoughts, Stephen’s activity encourages people to look after themselves and connect with nature and others.
Stephen Fry said: “I really hope people will really get something out of taking this walk”
He added: “But I have a confession to make: I got a great deal out of it myself just saying the words and imagining the hundreds, perhaps thousands, of people who might find in it some kind of solace and balm for hurt, anxious or sorrowful minds.
“It’s such a simple and wonderful idea.”
Callum Fairhurst, who founded the charity after his older brother died from cancer aged just 14, said: “The walk was originally aimed at supporting young people when their brother or sister dies, but it’s accessible to absolutely anyone regardless of the reason they want to do it.”
He added: “We know that when a young person's brother or sister dies they’re more likely to experience a range of mental health issues.
“This walk encourages them to subtly speak about their feelings and find coping mechanisms throughout. It’s such a beautiful walk.”
As well as the walk Salhouse Broad offers canoeing, a play park, camping, boat mooring and a small takeaway cafe as well as lots of wooded and open space.
One person who completed the walk said “From sharing funny stories we remembered of a family member who is no longer with us, to gazing at the clouds to immersing ourselves in the beauty and tranquility of our surroundings I came away re-energised, connected and at peace”.
Support for children dealing with the loss of a sibling, families wishing to support children and resources for healthcare professionals and those in a care position can be found on the Sibling Support website where free resources, case studies and more information is available, or by emailing: hello@siblingsupport.co.uk.