Remembering David Hawkins: A Kind Friend Who Made a Difference

Everyone at ‘For Men To Talk’ was deeply saddened to hear of the passing of our friend, David Hawkins.

David was a valued member of the ‘For Men To Talk’ family and someone who will be remembered with great affection. He always had a smile, enjoyed chatting with others, and brought warmth to every meeting he attended.

Many of us will remember David for his lifelong love of Liverpool Football Club, where he proudly held a season ticket. He was also well known for his love of Dalmatian dogs, which often became a talking point during conversations, especially when they joined him! These interests were a big part of who he was and helped people connect with him.

David’s experiences with loss and anxiety inspired him to help others. He believed that talking openly about mental health could make a real difference, and he worked hard to encourage those conversations.

One of his greatest achievements was helping to develop Fore Your Mind, an innovative mental health awareness programme launched by England Golf in November 2024.

The programme is based around accredited Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) training. It gives volunteers the skills to recognise the early signs that someone may be struggling, start supportive conversations, and help people find the right support.

In its first year, the programme achieved some fantastic results:

•  90% of golf clubs in Bedfordshire gained an MHFA Champion.
•  More than 150 people received support.
•  The programme is now expanding across the country.

These achievements show just how much of an impact David helped create. Fore Your Mind sends an important message that golf clubs are not just places to play sport—they can also be places where people care for one another and support each other’s wellbeing.

At ‘For Men To Talk’, we know how important those conversations can be. David understood that simply asking someone how they are, listening without judgement, and being there for them can change a person’s life.

Luke Newman, CEO and founder of ‘For Men To Talk’, said: “David was one of life’s genuinely kind people. We spent many hours together, not only at ‘For Men To Talk’ meetings but also at many charity events and social occasions over the years. He always had time for people, always had a friendly word to say, and his kindness made everyone around him feel welcome. He cared deeply about helping others and wanted people to know they didn’t have to face difficult times alone. I will always remember our conversations, his sense of humour, and the passion he had for Liverpool Football Club, a common interest of ours. David leaves behind a legacy of compassion through the lives he touched and through the success of the Fore Your Mind programme. He will be greatly missed by everyone who knew him. You’ll Never Walk Alone my friend.”

Although David is no longer with us, the difference he made will continue. Every conversation started through Fore Your Mind, every person who receives support, and every life that is helped is part of the legacy he leaves behind.

At ‘For Men To Talk’, we are grateful to have known David. We will remember him not only for his passions, his kindness and his friendship, but also for the lasting impact he made on mental health awareness in Bedfordshire and beyond.

Our thoughts are with David’s family, friends and everyone whose life he touched during this very sad time. He will be greatly missed, but he will never be forgotten.