People in and around Shepton Mallet are invited to join the town’s first ever Walk for a Life event on Thursday 17 September.
Organised by Somerset Council’s Public Health team in partnership with local statutory and voluntary sector organisations, Walk for a Life is held to remember those who have lost their lives to suicide, raise awareness and encourage positive action to help prevent suicide in Somerset. Having run in Taunton since 2022, this is the first year the event has been held in Shepton Mallet.
Mendip South Councillor, Claire Sully, said:
“Suicide has touched the lives of many families across Somerset, including people in my own close-knit community. Through my work as a councillor, I have championed suicide prevention and highlighted the need for greater awareness and support in the east of the county.
“After attending Walk for a Life in Taunton, I could see how valuable it would be to bring a similar event closer to local communities. I’m thrilled that Shepton Mallet is hosting the walk for the first time, giving people the opportunity to come together, remember loved ones, support one another, open up conversations about mental health and suicide, and encourage people to seek support when they need it.”
The walk starts at 5.30pm from Shepton Mallet Library, 2 Market Place, Shepton Mallet following a wheelchair and pushchair friendly loop around Collett Park.
The walk offers a space for reflection, remembrance and action: to empower individuals and communities across Somerset to talk openly about mental health, to reduce stigma, and to support people to access help before they reach crisis.
Councillor Evie Potts-Jones, Lead Member for SEND, Public Health and Equalities & Diversity, said:
“I’m delighted that Walk for a Life is coming to Shepton Mallet for the first time. Suicide affects communities across the whole of Somerset, and it’s important that people don’t have to travel far to find a space to remember, to talk and to know that support is there.”
“Whether you’re walking in memory of a loved one or to show your support for suicide prevention, your presence matters.”
“After the walk, participants are invited to re-join at Shepton Mallet Library between 6.30pm and 8.30pm for refreshments and an opportunity to connect and reflect.”
The Mind Hub, at 57c High Street, Shepton Mallet, BA4 5AQ, will also be open during the event for anyone who would like additional support or to speak to someone.
For more information visit: Walk for a Life Somerset – Walk for a Life or our Facebook page Shepton Mallet Walk For a Life 2026 | Facebook
If you or someone you know is struggling, call Mindline – Somerset’s 24/7 mental health helpline:
- Local: 01823 276 892
- Freephone: 0800 138 1692
