We meet fortnightly in Guernsey at the Vale Rec Clubhouse on a Monday evening at 7pm, or in Alderney at the Alderney Mind Centre once a month. Men come together to support one another without judgement, and in confidentiality. This space is sacred. The meetings are run by qualified Mental Health First Aiders who facilitate the space by serving those that attend.
We sit in a circle, demonstrating that all men here are equal, no matter what age, race, or background. Using the Native American tradition of a talking stick so that when you hold the talking stick, you may not be interrupted. This is the time for you to speak your truth, your story, and how you are feeling. There is no judgement, only unconditional support. In everyday life it isn’t easy to find a space where you can talk so openly without the other person trying to fix your problem, or applying judgement. In this space you can get anything off your chest. We are on your side.
“When in the circle no-one is in the front, no-one is behind,no-one is above, no-one is below” – Native American saying.
There is no obligation to talk until you are ready. Many find that listening to others provides a new perspective, as well as helping to build bonds of compassion. There are no sign ups, no registrations, new guys come each time and are always cared for. You can checkout and leave a meeting at any time, but you will always be welcomed back. There are men of all ages and backgrounds, and we honour and respect one another.
Man Club creates deep bonds and friendships. Outside of the club, it has brought together a brotherhood who are always there for one another with a huge What’sApp group, sea swims, breakfasts, meeting up for walks, runs, and just checking in on one another. The movement is growing day by day and men are there to listen to one another, as well as to openly share about how they are feeling. We are a community.
“I have found that one of the biggest challenges with my mental health was finding someone to talk to who would listen, empathise, maybe relate, wouldn't judge and could provide some vital feedback when sought. I've found not just one person but a whole team in Man's Club,which has quickly become my sanctuary or maybe manctuary!” – Matt, Man Club Guernsey
“Man Club has become an integral part of my life. A Safe space to talk or just listen without judgement, with complete support from other Men. It acts as a medication for me, sharing my problems and listening to others means I never feel alone any longer in any difficult situation in life. The other men involved inspire me to continue moving forwards and enjoying my life after really hitting rock bottom in November 2017. I am incredibly proud to be involved in this support group through Guernsey Mind” – Sam Cochrane
“Since I found Man Club my life has changed. Not only do I feel like I can talk about what scares me, worries me, and brings out my anxiety, but I feel supported in decisions that I make about my life. Knowing that I have 20 blokes in a room backing me up or 40+ on What’sApp gives me the encouragement, and drive to do something different. I have started the gym and training towards an Ultra, I walk 3 times a week and I have even considering swimming and language lessons. Not only that but I feel I have been able to help others - whether it be through joining them for a walk, joining a What’sApp chat about fitness to encourage each other, or just by listening and holding the space for others, it has also given me a sense of purpose. Man Club is now an integral part of my life.” – David Buddery
“Man Club is like your best friend and is there for you all the time. It lifts you up when you are low, and celebrates with you when you are good.” – David Savident
“Man Club has helped me with my Mental Health battles by providing me with tools necessary from other guys who have experienced their own as well. I can honestly say I don’t know where I would be without it” – Paul Bee
