Supporting men’s mental health

Funding from believe housing is helping men in County Durham to get support with their mental health and physical health.

believe housing has awarded grant funding to ManHealth, a community interest company which supports men through difficulties in their mental and physical ill health, ultimately to prevent suicide.

ManHealth provide free peer support groups which empower men to establish new goals and begin meaningful changes in their lives, while developing positive meaningful relationships. The confirmation of the grant from believe housing coincides with Mental Health Awareness Week, which runs from 12 to 18 May. This year, the focus is on the power and importance of community for people’s mental health and wellbeing.

Paul Bannister, founder of ManHealth, said: “We’re delighted to receive this grant from believe housing. Their support helps us to continue our life-saving work in our communities, ensuring men have access to the peer-led support they need.

“Our peer support sessions give men who need help a healthy community, a chance to talk with fellow men and our staff to build a healthier life for themselves.”

The community funding from believe housing will help cover the costs of two Group Facilitators for peer support groups in They help to create a safe environment during the sessions, making sure that everyone feels comfortable to share their thoughts and make sure all voices are heard equally.

Damian Pearson, Community Investment Team Leader at believe housing, said: “Suicide is one of the biggest killers of men in this country, and a key factor is that a lot of men struggle to talk about their mental health.”

“We care about the health and wellbeing of our customers and communities and by funding ManHealth  to extend its work in our area, we hope more men will get the help they need to improve their mental health and live well.”

More information about ManHealth can be found on its website:  www.manhealth.org.uk.

To find out more about community grants and funding please visit: community funding | believe housing