'Men do talk' support group starts

A "much-needed" weekly community group aimed at supporting men's mental health has started in Peterborough.

The Inspired Men Club, set up by hypnotherapist Gary Johannes, hopes to give men - from the city or wider Cambridgeshire - a safe, non-judgemental space to talk and connect with others.

The idea for the club grew after Johannes attended a networking event at Peterborough United where conversations highlighted a gap in informal support for men, of all ages.

"We hear the phrase all the time that men don't talk. But men do talk. There's often too much judgement and too much expectation. This space removes that," he said.

Johannes, who runs the private Inspired To Change mental health service across Peterborough, said he regularly saw men who were not at crisis point, but were feeling burdened, isolated or overwhelmed.

"A lot of men feel that if they open up about their big problems, it might make them look more vulnerable. They feel they will be judged," he said.

"There's no therapy here [club] or judgement.

"It's not about fixing anyone or getting better. It's about connection. You can have a tea or coffee, chat if you want, or just sit and observe. That's enough.

"They're not broken, but they're carrying a lot. We want to offer support before things reach crisis level."

He said the initiative had already received backing from organisations including Peterborough United Foundation, The Gaming Lounge, and the Armed Forces Covenant.

He added that he hoped the group would grow "organically".

"We might get nobody one week or a 100 people the next. Either way, the door will be open," Johannes said.

Peterborough United Foundation's community manager, Emily Purbrick, said: "The percentage of men with mental health struggles is increasing... and the need for more support services is clear.

"We're delighted to be supporting the new men's mental health hub and we're hoping that those who may be struggling come and join - whether that be to share, listen or just be around good company."

The Inspired Men Club runs every Monday evening on Shrewsbury Avenue in Orton Longueville.

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