More weekly sessions which bring together men struggling with their mental health are being launched across Cumbria.
Andy’s Man Club is a male suicide prevention charity which hosts sessions on Monday evenings to provide men with a safe, non-judgemental place to open up about their feelings.
To ensure its services are available to as many people as possible across the county, a second club will start in Carlisle on November 11, with a new club in Innovia Lowther R&D Centre in Wigton meeting from November 4.
A club in Penrith is in the pipeline.
The current sessions at Carlisle United Community Trust regularly attract up to 50 people, and the introduction of a new club at Carlisle East Fire Station will allow groups to be smaller and less intimidating, while also providing local services to people living in different parts of the city.
Chris Green, the lead facilitator of the Carlisle branch of Andy’s Man Club, said: “The group at Carlisle shows that there is a lot of demand for our services in the city, so opening a new club will mean that we can reach more men and offer an environment which may be less daunting for participants if there’s too many group members.
“Andy’s Man Club provides a lifesaving service where we let men know that ‘it’s okay to talk’ and as long as there is a need for our services, we will ensure we offer sessions which are easy to access and prove valuable to our members.
“Opening new clubs in Carlisle East, Wigton and Penrith will make sure people can access clubs close to where they live and means that help is closer on hand.”
Andy’s Man Club meets every Monday evening at 7pm, except bank holidays, and adult men are invited to attend the sessions.
The charity runs clubs in Cumbria at Carlisle United Community Trust, Grasslot Welfare Sports and Social Club in Maryport, Whitehaven Rugby Club, James Walker & Co in Cockermouth, Workington Reds’ Borough Park, Energus at Lillyhall, and Barrow AFC.
It is always advisable to check the Facebook page for any updates, or find your nearest club at www.andysmanclub.co.uk.
