Canal Walk 2025 brings our community together

Published 14 May 2025

We’re delighted to share highlights from one of our most cherished events, the Making Space Canal Walk 2025, held in memory of our founder, David Lyne.

This year’s walk took place during Mental Health Awareness Week (12–18 May) and followed a scenic 3km route along the Bridgewater Canal at Walton Hall Gardens, Warrington. With the 2025 theme “Community – Together for Good Mental Health”, the event offered a wonderful opportunity to come together, reflect, and support each other’s wellbeing.

More than 25 people – including people we support, support workers, and volunteers – joined us from across services including: Ashwood Court - Lowton, Rivacre - Ellesmere Port, St Helens Family Support, Warrington Connect Hub, The Academy - Warrington, Liverpool Supported Living and the Wellbeing First Service.

Also joining us on the day were representatives from the Birchwood Park Team at Mitie, the UK’s leading facilities management and professional services company, who have proudly chosen Making Space as their Charity of the Year. It was a great opportunity for them to meet the people we support and see firsthand the impact of their partnership.

We were also joined by our long-time corporate partner, Marcus Edwards from Not Just Travel, whose continued support and enthusiasm for our work means so much to everyone at Making Space.

After the walk, attendees enjoyed time exploring the beautiful Walton Hall Gardens, saying hello to the animals at the petting zoo, and relaxing with lunch at the café, a perfect way to recharge and chat.

Feedback from the people we support was overwhelmingly positive, with many sharing how much they enjoyed the day. Several said it was a great opportunity to meet new people from other services, make new friends, and spend quality time outdoors. The sunshine added an extra boost to everyone’s mood.

Event organiser and Making Space Corporate Fundraising Lead, Natalie Bargery:

At Making Space, we’re passionate about promoting good mental health and wellbeing for everyone. Events like the Canal Walk remind us of the power of community, and shared moments, all essential to supporting mental wellbeing.

It was wonderful to see so many familiar faces enjoying the day together.

A huge thank you to everyone who joined us for the walk, whether to honour David’s memory, enjoy the company, or simply take a breather in a peaceful space. Together, we’re building communities that care, and walking side by side for better mental health.

Find out more about Mental Health Awareness Week 2025 here.