Andy’s Man Club local facilitator Richard Solomon on how the group is helping to improve men’s mental health

Andy’s Man Club meets at St Matthew’s Church in Ponders End

As a facilitator at Andy’s Man Club in Ponders End, I’ve been privileged to witness the transformative power of simple connection.

In my role, I see first-hand how a casual chat, a cuppa and a biscuit can offer profound comfort and support to men who may be feeling isolated. Since we opened our doors last July it’s been incredibly moving to observe the impact of men simply turning up and being genuine with one another.

For me, the core of Andy’s Man Club is beautifully straightforward; it’s about providing a safe haven where men can express their mental health concerns without fear of judgement or pressure. It’s just about men coming together – to talk, to listen, and to offer mutual support.

Life throws a lot at us, doesn’t it? Whether it’s the constant grind of work, challenges within the family, or just the weight of daily life, many of us blokes tend to carry these burdens in silence. Andy’s Man Club was born from a heartbreaking event – the loss of Andy Roberts to suicide. His family’s vision was to create a space where men could openly discuss their experiences, ensuring that no-one else would have to endure such pain alone.

Now, the organisation has grown to include over 240 clubs across the UK, and I’m proud to be part of the Ponders End branch, one of the newest. My focus is to ensure that every man knows he doesn’t have to face his struggles in silence.

Our meetings follow a simple format – there’s no complicated sign-up process, no rigid formalities – just come along, grab a cuppa and a biscuit, and make yourself comfortable. The atmosphere is relaxed and informal.

Men use the space in different ways. Some come primarily to listen, others to share their own stories, and some simply need a supportive presence. I recall one bloke describing his attendance as a “weekly reset” which resonated deeply with me. Another shared that he hadn’t fully realised the extent of his emotional burden until he began talking openly, and now, Andy’s Man Club is an indispensable part of his routine.

Ultimately, that’s what we aim to achieve – to offer a space where men can check in with themselves, release what’s weighing them down, and leave feeling a little lighter.

Crucially, it’s not about therapy. We’re not therapists or counsellors – we’re simply a group of men who’ve navigated our own challenges and want to provide reassurance that no-one has to face those challenges alone.

All of us, myself included, started as attendees before becoming facilitators. We’ve sat in those chairs, wondering if we’d be understood. My priority is to ensure that every man who walks through our door feels safe and accepted.

We’re here to listen, not to offer quick fixes. There’s no pressure to speak unless you’re ready. We focus on fostering a comfortable environment where everyone feels free to be themselves.

The broader mission of Andy’s Man Club is incredibly important to me. Mental health, particularly men’s mental health, still carries a significant stigma. Too many men feel trapped, believing that expressing vulnerability equates to weakness. Andy’s Man Club is committed to changing that narrative, one conversation at a time.

Our Ponders End group is still in its early stages, but the positive impact we’re already seeing is remarkable. For some, it’s a lifeline; for others, it’s a valuable outlet for talking things through. And, in my experience, that’s often enough.

Andy’s Man Club meets in Ponders End on Mondays, 7–9pm (excluding bank holidays) and is free to attend. Find out more:
Email [email protected]
Visit andysmanclub.co.uk

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