SINCE opening its doors at the beginning of the year, a male mental health group in Carlisle has welcomed over 1,100 men seeking support.
Following successful group launches in West Cumbria, Andy’s Man Club opened in Carlisle on January 6 this year.
The weekly gatherings, which typically draw between 30 to 40 participants, offer a safe space for men to discuss mental health struggles and support each other.
Chris Green, a dedicated facilitator at the Carlisle branch, said the response has been 'overwhelming'.
“It’s the volunteers running the club that are passionate about it and what makes it work," he said.
For Chris, who has personally used Andy’s Man Club over the past two years, emphasised the importance of the support network provided: “Being a facilitator doesn’t mean we don’t need support ourselves.
"It’s crucial for attendees to see that even facilitators can struggle and benefit from the same safe space we offer.
"It helps everyone understand that it’s okay to seek help," he said.
The club’s mission aims to have a club every 30 miles from each other, a task which is 'difficult' with Cumbria being such a rural area.
Volunteers hope they will be able to open a club in Penrith soon.
Putting Cumbrian football rivalry aside, the group will be linking up with Barrow's Andy's Man Club prior to the Cumbrian derby on August 17 to raise awareness that it's 'okay to talk'.
The gatherings are not only a space for serious discussion over a brew but also a social outlet.
"It’s a suicide prevention charity but men that come can come from being lonely, homeless – it’s open to everybody.
“It’s a social thing as well, some of the lads swap numbers and meet up outside the club – it gives them the confidence to do it," Chris said.
The group's Facebook page now has over 4,000 followers.
The Carlisle Andy’s Man Club meets every Monday from 7 pm to 9 pm at the Carlisle United Community Sports Trust, Lismore Place.
For those unable to attend in person, the club offers online participation through their website.
Other Andy's Man Clubs in the county are in Maryport, Barrow, Whitehaven, Workington and Cockermouth.
Andy's Man Club sessions run every Monday, except bank holidays. You need to be 18 or over to attend.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here