Darlington, UK — A mental health and suicide prevention support group with over 200 locations nationwide is set to establish a presence in Darlington in the coming weeks. Andy’s Man Club, a men-only support network, was founded in 2016 in memory of Andrew Roberts, who tragically took his own life at the age of 23. The initiative has since expanded to venues in Murton, Horden, and Hartlepool.
The club provides a safe space for men to discuss their mental health and personal issues over a cup of tea and biscuits, fostering an environment of openness and support. The team behind the Stockton group is currently searching for a suitable venue in Darlington to facilitate the new location.
Craig Simcox, a 61-year-old facilitator from Middlesbrough, shared his personal experience with the group. “I started attending the Middlesbrough group after lockdown, and it really helped me,” he told The Northern Echo. “My family noticed the positive impact it had on me, which led to discussions about expanding into Stockton.”
Simcox took the initiative to launch the Stockton branch, opening its doors on August 8 of last year, the same day he lost his sister. “I really needed the group that day,” he reflected. “It feels good to give something back. I’ve been deeply involved in the group, and I see it as my job. It helps me immensely.”
Currently, the Stockton team is actively searching for a space in Darlington that meets specific criteria. The ideal venue must provide disabled access and free parking, have no religious or political affiliations, not host activities for those under 18, and be available every Monday from 7 to 9 PM.
“We’ve had a few offers, but we still haven’t secured a venue,” Craig explained. “We need a location that can comfortably accommodate around 40 people.”
Once a venue is confirmed, the team is prepared to set up the new group “within weeks.” The establishment of Andy’s Man Club in Darlington aims to create a vital support network for men in the community, promoting mental health awareness and prevention.
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