MEN’S SPACE PROJECT FEELS THE BENEFITS OF FUNDS

A project supporting men’s mental health in Deeside has received funding from a Flintshire homebuilder.

Art and Soul Tribe community interest company (CIC) successfully applied to the ‘Love from Anwyl’ fund, set up by Anwyl Homes, to help the community around its Summers Bridge development in Deeside.

The £1,000 donation has been used towards the Men's Space project, which offers fresh approach to improve mental health. Sessions combine nature-based activities and crafts with fitness and games like pool or chess.

Jessica Sparks, director at Art and Soul Tribe CIC, said:

“Men's Space is a safe, non-judgemental environment for men to discuss challenges, build camaraderie, and learn stress-reduction techniques, all while enjoying the restorative power of the outdoors.

“Men often struggle to prioritise mental health, feeling there is a stigma attached to the topic, and traditional therapy settings may not feel comfortable for everyone. This group offers a chance to connect with peers in a relaxed, natural environment, fostering open communication and promoting emotional well-being. Men's Space is open to anyone identifying as male who is seeking a supportive community and a connection with nature.”

One participant in the sessions said:

"With hindsight I can see how vital the help I have had has been. I wouldn’t have progressed anywhere as much or as far without being associated and interacting with Art & Soul Tribe and all the information, skills, time energy and effort put into all that is done.”

Another said:

"I struggle being around people and being out of the house. I am very anxious all the time but find the sessions invaluable. During the sessions I even talk a little to new people, which is very hard for me. At the end of each session, I feel so happy and feel a sense of accomplishment and calm that I struggle to find in everyday life.”

Art and Soul Tribe also works collaboratively alongside local organisations The Sandpit, Man-to-Man, and Wilderness Tribe CIC, who specialise in male mental health and healing in nature, to put on the sessions. They also provide mental health and wellbeing support for those who need it, as well as advocacy services and signposting to other support organisations.

Graeme Gibb, sales director for Anwyl Homes Cheshire and North Wales, said:

“Our Love from Anwyl funds are there to support organisations like The Art and Soul Tribe, who do vital work to support people living in our communities. Mental health is a subject many men find difficult to discuss but groups like this provide an environment in which they can feel comfortable to talk and socialise with other people. We are pleased our donation has been able to fund several Men’s Space sessions.”

Anwyl Homes is committed to supporting mental health in other ways. Around 30 of the company’s employees are mental health first aid trained. Its staff also have access to a 24/7 confidential support line. Earlier this year Anwyl welcomed the Lighthouse Club Charity to one of its building sites to encourage awareness around mental health as part of their “Make it Visible” tour.

Love From Anwyl is a voluntary scheme attached to the 183 homes Anwyl is building at Summers Bridge.

For more information see: 

www.anwylhomes.co.uk/our-developments/summers-bridge

Pictured - Left to Right: Jessica Sparks, Youth & Education Director, Art & Soul Tribe with Volunteer Linda Williams and Anwyl's Carol Nomdedeu.