£200 Community Grant Helps ‘For Men To Talk’ Support Local Men’s Mental Health

‘For Men To Talk’ has been awarded a £200 grant from the Pauline Aubigne Community Fund at John O’Gaunt Golf Club. The donation recognises the important support the organisation provides to men struggling with their mental health in the local community.

The award is especially meaningful because John O’Gaunt Golf Club is based in Potton, Bedfordshire — the hometown of founder and CEO, Luke Newman. The club sits in more than 300 acres of peaceful, tree-lined parkland and offers two 18-hole golf courses. It is one of the largest Members’ Clubs in the country and is home to a beautiful Victorian-era but modern clubhouse.

John O’Gaunt Golf Club has a strong and friendly membership, with active Men’s, Ladies’, Juniors’, and Seniors’ sections. They run a full programme of competitions, matches, social events, and roll-ups for players of all ages and abilities. Members compete in local leagues, take part in friendly matches with nearby clubs, and enjoy a busy social calendar that brings the whole golfing community together.

Luke Newman shared how grateful he is for the support from his hometown club.
“This donation means a great deal to us,” he said. “Knowing that our local community — especially a place I’ve known all my life — believes in the work we do gives us even more strength to help men speak openly about their mental health.”

The £200 grant will help ‘For Men To Talk’ continue hosting group sessions where men can talk about anxiety, depression, grief, loneliness, and other challenges many face but often struggle to express. The group provides a safe, supportive, and welcoming space where men can share without judgement.

How Golf Supports Men’s Mental and Physical Health

Mental health benefits include:

• Stress relief: Golf is played outdoors in calm, green surroundings. Spending time in nature lowers stress and improves mood.
• Social connection: Regular games, roll-ups, and competitions help men build friendships and reduce feelings of isolation.
• Improved focus: Golf encourages concentration, patience, and problem-solving, which can help quiet the mind.
• Boost in confidence: Achieving personal goals — even small improvements — can increase self-esteem.

Physical health benefits include:

• Low-impact exercise: Walking the course provides steady exercise that is gentle on the joints.
• Heart health: A full 18-hole round often involves walking several miles, promoting better cardiovascular fitness.
• Strength and flexibility: Swinging the club works core, back, and arm muscles while improving balance.
• Better overall fitness: Regular movement reduces the risk of health issues linked to inactivity.

The donation from John O’Gaunt Golf Club highlights how community, wellbeing, and sport can come together to make a real difference. With this support, more men will have the chance to speak openly, seek help, and improve both their mental and physical health.