Meeting With Mid Bedfordshire MP highlights the importance of men’s Mental Health

‘For Men To Talk’ CEO and founder, Luke Newman, recently had the opportunity to meet Blake Stephenson, the Conservative MP for Mid Bedfordshire. The meeting offered a chance to discuss the work of ‘For Men To Talk’ and the future plans for the community initiative.

Luke Newman, a husband and father from Potton, Bedfordshire, founded ‘For Men To Talk’ after experiencing anxiety, depression, and grief following the tragic loss of his mother and sister to cancer. “I noticed there weren’t enough support spaces for men to openly discuss their emotions,” Luke explains. “I wanted to create a welcoming place where men could connect and talk freely.”

‘For Men To Talk provides a relaxed and safe environment to discuss life topics—from work and relationships to more personal struggles like anxiety, depression, and grief.

‘For Men To Talk’ has grown steadily, offering physical, virtual, walking, and fishing meetings across Bedfordshire towns including Ampthill, Biggleswade, Blunham, Potton, Shefford, Flitwick, and Sandy. The organisation also runs specialised groups, such as ‘For Men To Talk About Autism,’ for autistic men, men with autistic family members, or those awaiting a diagnosis. These sessions provide a safe, inclusive space for sharing experiences and support.

In addition, the ‘For Men To Talk Social Club’ focuses on social activities rather than emotional discussions. Monthly trips to restaurants, cinemas, and comedy clubs allow members to spend time together in a relaxed setting, building friendships and a sense of community.

During the meeting, Luke and Blake discussed broader health topics. They agreed that good nutrition, physical activity, sleep, and stress management are key foundations for mental and physical wellbeing. They also touched on the proposed ban on social media for under-16s. Luke applauded the initiative for protecting children’s mental health but noted that social media also helps young people stay connected and find support networks.

Blake was impressed with the scope and impact of ‘For Men To Talk.’ He expressed openness to ongoing communication about how he and other local representatives might support the group in the future. 

For Luke, the meeting highlighted the growing recognition of men’s mental health in the community. “Our aim has always been to provide a safe space for men to speak freely,” he says. “It’s encouraging to see that both the public and local leaders understand the importance of these conversations and the need for ongoing support.” 

As ‘For Men To Talk’ continues to expand, the focus remains on fostering connection, reducing stigma, and supporting men through life’s challenges—whether through informal discussion groups, social activities, or specialist support sessions.

By engaging with local leaders and offering a variety of meeting formats, ‘For Men To Talk’ is making a real difference locally, showing that when men are given a safe space to talk, it can change lives.