Calderdale health advocate says 'don't suffer alone' after stress increase due to pandemic

Andrew Greenway, project development worker at Andy's Man Club (AMC), said although there has not been an increase in new members, the club have been able to remain open to provide a platform for men to talk.

It comes after new research from the Mental Health Foundation and collaborating universities revealed more than eight in ten (82 percent) of UK adults have experienced stress because of the pandemic.

Mr Greenway said: "We have managed to maintain our clubs and stay open to enable men the platform to talk.

"AMC has government exemption to be able to continue to meet in a Covid-secure way.

"The numbers of people contacting AMC has maintained and we'll continue to support those who need details of us and our groups."

The research also revealed 59 percent of UK adults who had experienced stress because of the pandemic said walking helped them cope.

Half of UK adults who had experienced stress because of the pandemic said visiting green spaces, such as parks, helped them cope.

Almost half (47 percent) of UK adults who had experienced stress because of the pandemic said contacting family had helped them cope: for example by phone, video chat, etc.

"We're offering an online option for those who are unable to make it along to sessions to attend and be able to speak in a non-judgemental environment," said Mr Greenway.

"Reach out and talk to someone. Don't suffer alone."

As part of the Covid-secure meet to allow management the venues AMC ask that anyone wishing to attend contact: [email protected]