‘For Men To Talk’ takes a seat at the table at Central Bedfordshire VCSE Network Launch

On Tuesday 3 June, the Council Chambers at Priory House in Chicksands opened their doors for the first meeting of the Central Bedfordshire Voluntary and Community Sector (VCSE) Network — a milestone event aiming to strengthen collaboration among the region’s community organisations. Among those invited to attend was Luke Newman, founder of ‘For Men To Talk’, a grassroots men’s peer support group offering a safe space for men to discuss mental health struggles including anxiety, depression, and grief.

The VCSE Network meeting brought together a wide array of stakeholders, including Marcel Coiffait, Chief Executive of Central Bedfordshire Council; Councillor Adam Zerny, Leader of the Council; and Councillor Mark Smith, Deputy Leader and Executive Member for Adult Social Care and Health. With an estimated 1,000 VCSE organisations active in Central Bedfordshire, this initiative marks a vital step forward in building stronger connections across charities, community groups, and public services.

‘For Men To Talk’ was proud to represent the voices of the men it serves, using the opportunity to spotlight the importance of mental health support and share insights into the challenges the group — and many others — face in sustaining services. From increasing demand and the struggle to recruit volunteers, to financial pressures that force nearly half of organisations to dip into their reserves, the VCSE landscape is under considerable strain. Over 11% of groups operate with no reserves at all, and more than 5% of registered charities earn less than £25,000 annually.

Luke Newman, reflecting on the day, said: “Being in that room reminded me how powerful community can be. Every person there, every organisation, is doing something vital. It was a privilege to be part of a conversation about how we can work together to do even more. For ‘For Men To Talk’, that means finding new ways to reach men who are struggling, and making sure they know they’re not alone.”

As a peer-led initiative, ‘For Men To Talk’ has evolved into a lifeline for many men in the community, offering in-person meetings, virtual sessions, fishing trips, and walking groups — all designed to encourage open dialogue in informal, supportive settings. By taking part in events like the VCSE Network launch, the group not only raises awareness of mental health issues but also pushes for improved access to funding, policy alignment, and meaningful collaboration with other organisations.

This inaugural meeting marks just the beginning of what promises to be a transformative journey for Central Bedfordshire’s VCSE sector. For organisations like ‘For Men To Talk’, it is a chance to amplify their message and connect with potential allies in a shared mission to improve community wellbeing.

To learn more about ‘For Men To Talk’, visit www.formentotalk.co.uk, call 07709 446480, or email luke@formentotalk.co.uk.