Episode 1 — A Policeman in the Field

Episode 1 — A Policeman in the FieldThis is the first episode of The Listening Walk, an audio documentary project exploring mental health in rural Lincolnshire.Setting out near the village of Surfleet in the Fens, Fraser McGruer begins a journey walking between community wellbeing hubs across South East Lincolnshire. Along the way he records conversations with people he meets — about their lives, their struggles, and the things that help them keep going.In this opening episode, a chance encounter leads to a conversation with Martin, a police officer working in the area. As they stand in a field beside the road, Martin reflects on the emotional realities of policing — from traumatic incidents and sudden deaths to the importance of talking openly with colleagues and family.What begins as a casual meeting becomes an unexpectedly honest discussion about trauma, resilience and the value of human connection.Themes in this episodeMental health in frontline servicesPTSD and policingMale friendship and supportTalking openly about traumaChance encounters and human connectionAbout the projectThe Listening Walk follows a walking journey across South East Lincolnshire. Moving between towns and villages in the Fens, the project records conversations with people encountered along the way — in community hubs, cafés, and sometimes simply by chance.Together these voices form a portrait of how people navigate mental health challenges within rural communities.CreditsProduced and recorded by Fraser McGruer.New episodes will be released regularly as the walk continues across Lincolnshire.