Mental Health Awareness Week: ‘For Men To Talk’ visits Autoglass Bedford to open conversations

As part of Mental Health Awareness Week, led nationally by the Mental Health Foundation, ‘For Men To Talk’ – a men’s peer support company – hosted an engaging and meaningful stall at the Autoglass call centre in Bedford.

Situated in the heart of the Head Office, the event gave employees an important opportunity to speak openly about their mental health during their working day. Luke Newman, Founder of ‘For Men To Talk’ was on hand to share his own experiences, as well as provide insight into the support, advice, and local resources available through the organisation.

Founded in December 2019, ‘For Men To Talk’ provides a safe, welcoming space for men suffering with anxiety, depression, grief, and other mental health challenges. The group’s mission is simple but powerful: to allow men to speak freely, connect with others, and reduce the stigma that still surrounds male mental health.

“By talking to each other, we realise we’re not alone,” said Luke. “It’s about being honest, being open, and supporting each other – that’s when change happens.”

The organisation offers a wide variety of meetings to suit different needs and preferences. These include in-person sessions, virtual gatherings, walking and fishing meetings – all designed to create comfortable environments where men feel safe to speak and be heard.

As a registered Community Interest Company (CIC), ‘For Men To Talk’ is run for the benefit of the community rather than private shareholders. Its impact continues to grow across the region and beyond, with regular meetings now running in towns including Biggleswade, Potton, Sandy, St Neots, Gamlingay, and Hitchin – and even further afield in Aldershot and Stockport.

Excitingly, the organisation has recently been awarded funding to expand its reach even further. Through the Community Trust Fund – a partnership between Bedfordshire & Luton Community Foundation (BLCF) and London Luton Airport – ‘For Men To Talk’ will now be able to launch new groups in Ampthill, Shefford, and Flitwick. This funding is a vital step toward helping even more men across Bedfordshire and surrounding areas access the peer support they need.

The visit to Autoglass Bedford was a reminder of the importance of taking conversations about mental health into the workplace. It showed how, with the right support and encouragement, more men can take that first step toward opening up – and ultimately, toward healing.

To find out more about ‘For Men To Talk’, their meeting times, or how to support their work, visit www.formentotalk.co.uk.