8
Sessions Delivered
24
Total Attendances
19
Eventbrite Bookings
8
Locations Across Waltham Forest
About the Project
What Was 5K Steps & Snapshots?
5K Steps & Snapshots was designed as a low-pressure men's wellbeing project that used the everyday, familiar activities of walking and smartphone photography to bring men together in an informal, outdoor setting across Waltham Forest.
The project was specifically designed to reach men who do not typically engage with structured support services, using nature, creativity, and gentle physical movement as accessible entry points.
No prior experience or equipment was needed, sessions were free to attend, and the format deliberately avoided anything clinical, formal, or intimidating.
Project at a Glance
Location: Waltham Forest, London
Dates: November 2025 to January 2026
Sessions: 8 weekly Saturday morning sessions, 90 mins each
Format: Group walk + smartphone photography + informal discussion
Delivery Partner: Mindful Mavericks CIC
Funders: Waltham Forest Council, Waltham Forest Giving, Groundwork
Programme Format
Simple by Design. Meaningful by Outcome.
Walk
Participants gathered each Saturday morning for a guided group walk through local Waltham Forest locations, aiming for approximately 5,000 steps. Routes included Lea Valley, Walthamstow Central, Wood Street, Fellowship Square, and Hollow Pond, with regular stopping points built into every route.
Photograph
Each session had a weekly smartphone photography theme that was practical, progressive, and completely adaptable. Themes covered observation, composition, storytelling, and confidence building. Spare smartphones and portable power banks were provided for those who needed them.
Connect
The walking and photography created a natural backdrop for conversation, reflection, and informal connection. Men who might never have chosen to attend a formal support group found themselves talking openly and sharing perspectives in an environment that felt relaxed and ordinary.
"No pressure walking, casual conversation, and learning photography — what's not to enjoy?"
Anonymous participant, 5K Steps & Snapshots 2025
Where We Walked
Eight Sessions Across Waltham Forest
Lea Valley & Surrounding Urban Routes
Scenic riverside paths offering a peaceful contrast to urban surroundings, ideal for reflective walking and nature photography.
Walthamstow Central & Market Areas
Vibrant, bustling streets with rich visual texture, perfect for street photography themes and engaging with local life.
Wood Street & Fellowship Square
A mix of green spaces and community hubs providing varied backdrops for creative exploration and group discussion.
Hollow Pond & Surrounding Greenery
Tranquil lakeside paths surrounded by trees, encouraging calm, connection with nature, and slower-paced photography.
What We Achieved
Real Outcomes for Real Men.
24
Total Attendances
Across 8 sessions including strong repeat participation
8
Unique Outdoor Locations
Exploring Waltham Forest through fresh eyes
19
Eventbrite Bookings
Plus additional bookings via Instagram and community outreach
5,000+
Steps Per Session
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100%
Free to Attend
Zero cost, zero barriers to participation
3+
Repeat Attendees
Multiple participants attended 3 or more sessions
Physical Wellbeing
Participants engaged in gentle physical activity each week, building healthier movement habits and improving routine without pressure or fitness expectations. Walking close to 5,000 steps per session encouraged consistency.
Mental Wellbeing
The combination of fresh air, creative focus, and easy conversation helped men experience reduced mental load, improved mood, and greater present-moment awareness. Participants reported feeling calmer and more grounded.
Confidence & Connection
The shared activity of photography gave men something neutral and enjoyable to focus on together, making conversation feel easier. Over time, participants became noticeably more relaxed, communicative, and expressive.
In Their Own Words
What Participants Said
"
No pressure walking, casual conversation, and learning photography — what's not to enjoy?
Anonymous participant, 5K Steps & Snapshots 2025
"
I learned how to take better photos on my phone and even how to attach them to emails, which was really useful.
Anonymous participant, 5K Steps & Snapshots 2025
"
It was peaceful, calm, new and educational too. Hosted by lovely people and captured beautiful moments.
Anonymous participant, 5K Steps & Snapshots 2025
"
These sessions are great for meeting new people and getting out of the house.
Anonymous participant, 5K Steps & Snapshots 2025
"By combining walking, creativity, and informal connection, the project created a space where men felt comfortable showing up, taking part, and engaging at their own pace."
Mindful Mavericks CIC Programme Summary
Our Mission
Designed to Remove Barriers, Not Create Them.
5K Steps & Snapshots was built from the ground up to be as accessible as possible. It was free to attend with no specialist equipment required. Smartphones were the only tool, and for those who did not have one, the project provided portable power banks and spare devices.
Routes were chosen with regular stopping points and flexible participation in mind, so men could walk at their own pace without pressure to keep up or perform. The outdoor and informal setting helped reduce the anxiety that often prevents men from engaging with traditional group support.
Free to Attend
No Experience Needed
Smartphones Provided
Flexible Pace
Outdoor & Informal Setting
✓ What Worked Well
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The walking-photography format proved engaging and accessible to men who rarely attended structured activities.
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Clear weekly themes gave each session structure without creating pressure.
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Outdoor locations encouraged openness and natural conversation.
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Small group settings allowed for personal support, flexibility, and genuine human connection.
→ Looking Forward
5K Steps & Snapshots has demonstrated strong potential for continuation and expansion. Future development opportunities include:
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Repeat programme cycles across different Waltham Forest locations
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Themed seasonal walks with community partners
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Exhibitions or digital showcases of participant photography
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Integration with other Mindful Mavericks wellbeing activities
Participants gained practical photography skills, confidence outdoors, a renewed sense of routine, and greater awareness of their local area — all sustainable well beyond the programme itself.
Made Possible With Support From
Waltham Forest Council
Waltham Forest Giving
Groundwork
Their support made it possible to deliver a project that was practical, inclusive, and rooted in the local community of Waltham Forest. We are grateful for their commitment to men's wellbeing.
Help Us Do This Again.
5K Steps & Snapshots showed what is possible when men are given the right space, the right activity, and the right support. With your help, we can deliver more programmes like this across Waltham Forest and beyond.
Mindful Mavericks CIC — Community Interest Company registered in England and Wales. Company No: 15949257.