A decade of hope: the charity’s journey
Andy’s Man Club, a national men’s mental health and suicide prevention charity, is celebrating its tenth anniversary this year. Founded in 2016 in Halifax, West Yorkshire, the organisation takes its name from Andy Roberts, a young man who lost his life at the age of 23. The charity describes itself as a safe space where men can discuss their emotions without fear of judgment. Since its inception, the club has grown from a single location to a nationwide network, offering a structured programme that encourages openness, peer support, and professional guidance. The mission remains rooted in reducing suicide rates and improving mental wellbeing through community‑based interventions.
Expanding reach: new club in Ivybridge and growth in Devon
The expansion story is particularly evident in Devon, where the charity’s presence has intensified over the past six years. The first Devon club opened its doors in Newton Abbot in 2018, marking the beginning of a steady increase in services across the county. Today, there are 14 clubs operating throughout Devon, providing regular sessions for men of all ages and backgrounds. On Monday, the charity will launch a new centre in Ivybridge, the latest addition to this growing network. The opening reflects a strategic effort to reach more isolated communities and to ensure that support is accessible regardless of geography. Each club follows a consistent format: a weekly group meeting led by trained facilitators, opportunities for informal social interaction, and sign‑posting to professional mental health resources when needed. The expansion is being welcomed by local authorities who see the clubs as a vital part of the public health response to rising mental health concerns.
Personal transformation: stories from members
For many attendees, the impact of the club is profound and measurable. Roger Bond, a resident of Plymouth, attended his first session about three years ago when he describes himself as being “in a very dark place.” He recalls the moment he walked through the door: “I was scared, but the warmth of the group instantly made me feel seen.” Over time, the regular meetings became a cornerstone of his recovery, and he says he has “never looked back.” Roger’s testimony illustrates the therapeutic value of peer‑led support combined with professional oversight. Clinical psychologists note that such structured, gender‑specific groups can significantly reduce feelings of isolation, a key risk factor for suicide. The charity’s model aligns with evidence‑based practices that emphasise early intervention, social connection, and destigmatisation of mental health struggles.
Community and clinical perspectives: why such spaces matter
Health professionals have highlighted the importance of initiatives like Andy’s Man Club in addressing the gender gap in mental health service utilisation. Men are statistically less likely to seek help from traditional healthcare settings, often citing stigma or a perception that emotional expression is a weakness. By providing a dedicated centre where men can share experiences in a non‑clinical but supportive environment, the charity bridges that gap. Dr. Sarah Mitchell, a consultant psychiatrist with expertise in suicide prevention, explains that “safe, facilitated spaces where men can speak openly about their feelings are essential components of a comprehensive mental health strategy. They complement clinical treatment and can be the first step toward professional help.” The charity’s programme is designed to be a gateway rather than a replacement for medical care, ensuring that participants receive appropriate referrals when needed. Moreover, the expansion into new areas helps to embed these services within local communities, fostering a culture of openness that can have lasting effects on suicide rates.
Why it Matters
The growth of Andy’s Man Club across Devon and its celebration of a decade of service mark a significant milestone in the national fight against suicide. By increasing access to safe, supportive environments, the charity not only saves lives but also challenges entrenched attitudes that prevent men from seeking help. The new Ivybridge centre ensures that even more individuals will find a place where they can speak without fear, potentially averting crises before they escalate. As mental health challenges continue to rise, especially among men, the model demonstrated by Andy’s Man Club offers a proven, community‑driven approach that can be replicated elsewhere. This expansion underscores the vital role of grassroots organisations in public health and highlights the urgent need for continued investment in preventive mental health initiatives.
