‘For Men To Talk’ will be joining BBC Three Counties Radio for Headfest

Exciting news! ‘For Men To Talk’ will be joining BBC Three Counties Radio for Headfest at the Quarry Theatre at St Luke’s in Bedford! This two-day event, taking place on Monday 21st and Tuesday 22nd of October 2024, is all about promoting positive mental health and wellbeing. It will feature a variety of speakers, workshops, and activities for everyone to get involved in.

Luke Newman, founder of the award-winning peer support group For Men To Talk, will be giving a special presentation on Tuesday, 21st October at 3 PM. If you’re interested in how this group started and how it has grown to support men facing mental health challenges, this talk is not to be missed! Luke will share his personal journey of how For Men To Talk came into existence during a time when he struggled to find the support he needed. Through his personal experience, Luke created a space specifically for men to talk openly about their mental health, something that was deeply lacking for many. His presentation will explore the unique structure of the group, its accomplishments, and how it has become a lifeline for many men dealing with anxiety, depression, and grief.

Headfest will offer a rich mix of activities and sessions designed to help promote mental health and well-being. The event has something for everyone, from mindfulness art therapy to outdoor workshops for children. It’s a chance to engage, learn, and discover new ways to maintain a healthy mindset. Some of the other exciting workshops lined up for the event include:

• The Big Red Bath with Full House Theatre: This interactive workshop for preschoolers will feature award-winning children’s author Julia Jarman. It’s perfect for little ones, running three times throughout the day on the 21st.

• Understanding Neurodiversity: A valuable workshop by Autism Bedfordshire that dives into neurodiversity, what it means, and the support available.

• Art for Health: A drop-in session where pre-schoolers can make a Vincent Van Gogh-inspired sunflower collage using recycled materials, guided by Bedford-based illustrator Katie Allen.

For those interested in film, there’s also a free screening of the award-winning musical Dear Evan Hansen at 6:30 PM, followed by a discussion about the mental health themes highlighted in the movie.

On Tuesday, the event continues with more inspiring activities, including a 5 Ways to Wellbeing mindfulness meditation session by Mind BLMK, a session on Talking Menopause with Diane Danzebrink, founder of the Make Menopause Matter campaign, and an inspirational talk from Nick Wilson, also known as the Disabled Adventurer, about his advocacy for disability and mental health.

The event will wrap up with an insightful comedy show from award-winning comedian Juliette Burton titled Hopepunk. Known for tackling serious subjects like mental health with humor, Juliette will explore how hope and relentless optimism can help us navigate difficult times.

Headfest is a fantastic opportunity to engage with experts, learn practical mental health strategies, and hear inspiring stories. Whether you’re coming for Luke Newman’s talk on men’s mental health or looking to enjoy some family-friendly activities, this event promises to have something for everyone.

We’re thrilled to be part of such an important event and can’t wait to share the story of For Men To Talk with all of you! Make sure to mark your calendars and join us at the Quarry Theatre.