Bognor Regis man turns personal struggles into support for others facing loneliness and mental health challenges
A Bognor Regis man has drawn on his own struggles to launch community initiatives supporting mental health and tackling loneliness.
Richard Johnson is a walk leader for Men Walking and Talking and a host for Empty Chairs, two initiatives offering people in the local community a safe, welcoming space to connect with others.
His motivation comes from his own experiences of adversity, which began in childhood when he was bullied at school because of his stammer.
One particularly traumatic incident saw a bully kick a ball at his left ear, rupturing his eardrum. Richard has been deaf in that ear ever since.
His mental health journey continued when he lost his brother to cancer at just 16 years old. Around eight years ago, Richard faced another major challenge when he developed bladder cancer.
Then, last year, he experienced what he describes as one of his ‘darkest periods’ after enduring more than four years of workplace bullying in a ‘toxic environment’.
Richard said: “It felt like one thing after another, and there were moments I honestly didn't know how I'd keep going.
“I've been married for over 30 years, and my family means the world to me. We have five children together, two of whom have learning difficulties, and five wonderful grandchildren. They keep me going and give me so much strength.
"But through those struggles, I realised how important it is just to have somewhere to go and someone to talk to, that's why I decided to step up and get involved.
"I'm now a walk leader for Men Walking and Talking and a host for Empty Chairs here in Bognor Regis. I know what it's like to be in the darkness, and I wanted to make sure no one else in our community had to go through it alone.”
Men Walking and Talking meets every Thursday at 7pm at the seafront bandstand. Part of a nationwide network of more than 90 groups, it offers men the opportunity to walk together, chat and enjoy some company, without pressure or expectation.
Richard also hosts Empty Chairs, a fortnightly drop-in at Bonito Lounge in London Road. Sessions take place on alternate Mondays, switching between 2pm and 7pm. The next meeting is on Monday, November 2, at 2pm.
The initiative offers an empty chair waiting for anyone who needs somewhere to sit and talk. There is no need to book, explain why they have come or even speak if they do not feel ready.
Both groups are free and open to everyone, providing a friendly, non-judgemental environment.