A new hub for men’s mental health support is launching in Pontypool, aiming to help local men connect and share their experiences.
Pontypool: A new hub for a men’s mental health charity is on the way. The Andy Man’s Club is setting up a base in the town this January.
Joshua Williams, who volunteers at the Merthyr Tydfil club, shared their goal. They want to support men across South Wales.
Andy’s Man Club runs weekly peer support groups for men. They focus on improving mental health by encouraging open conversations about challenges.
Right now, the closest clubs are in Merthyr Tydfil and Abergavenny. The team is currently scouting venues in Pontypool for their Monday evening sessions.
“We’re looking at a few spots,” Joshua said. “As long as we find a venue, I believe there’s a real interest.”
To lead the sessions, a person must complete eight sessions at another club first. There’s definitely a desire for this in Pontypool.
Recently, locals held an event called ‘The Full Monty in Ponty’ to raise funds for the charity. It was organized by Chione Matthews and Charlotte May, with support from Andy’s Man Club.
The event raised over £3,200 and featured a disco, a talk by Joshua on men’s mental health, and even a strip dance by five brave men.
Chione mentioned that the men felt empowered. After the performance, they realized that being vulnerable is okay.
Chione’s daughter, Ariella, created a tribute video for her late father, who sadly took his own life in May 2023.
Charlotte’s brother, Ben, also lost his life in October 2022. Their experiences motivated them to collaborate with Andy Man’s Club for this event.
Chione believes that raising awareness can help more men seek help when they’re struggling. “There’s so much left behind after a suicide,” she said.
