Supporting Men’s Mental Health through the Co-op Local Community Fund
Communities grow stronger when people support one another. One way this happens across the UK is through the Co-op Local Community Fund, which helps local organisations provide opportunities, support and resources so people can thrive.
Since 2016, the Co-op has helped over 39,000 causes support 9.5 million people in communities across the UK. The unique part of the scheme is that Co-op Members choose which local causes receive support. By selecting a cause through their membership account or the Co-op App, members help decide where a share of Co-op profits goes.
This year, ‘For Men To Talk’ is one of the causes that members can choose to support. The more members who select the group as their chosen cause, the more funding it will receive when the current funding round ends in October 2026.
The response so far has been incredibly encouraging. 652 Co-op Members have already selected ‘For Men To Talk’ as their cause, showing strong support from the community for men’s mental health.
Members can support the group by selecting it through their online membership account or via the Co-op App under the ‘Wallet’ tab. You can also choose the cause directly here: https://membership.coop.co.uk/causes/97008
Every selection helps make a difference.
Creating Safe Spaces for Men
‘For Men To Talk’ is a peer support group for men experiencing mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression and grief. The aim is simple: provide a safe and comfortable place where men can talk openly and connect with others who understand.
Conversations at the meetings can cover many aspects of life including work, relationships, family pressures, anxiety and everyday struggles. There is no pressure to speak. Men can share as much or as little as they like.
There are also no rules, referrals or registration required, making it easy for men to attend and feel welcome from the moment they arrive.
Over the years, the group has continued to grow and now offers a range of different meeting styles. These include physical meetings, virtual sessions, walking groups and fishing meet-ups, helping men connect in ways that feel comfortable for them.
Meetings currently take place in:
- Ampthill, Bedfordshire
- Biggleswade, Bedfordshire
- Blunham, Bedfordshire
- Potton, Bedfordshire
- Shefford, Bedfordshire
- Flitwick, Bedfordshire
- Sandy, Bedfordshire
- St Neots, Cambridgeshire
- Gamlingay, Cambridgeshire
- Hitchin, Hertfordshire
- Stockport, Cheshire
Expanding Support
Alongside its core meetings, the organisation has also created additional ways for men to connect.
‘For Men To Talk about Autism’ is a dedicated group for autistic men, men with autistic family members, or those who may be waiting for a diagnosis. It offers a safe and understanding environment where people can share experiences around autism.
There is also the ‘For Men To Talk Social Club’, which focuses on spending time together without the pressure of difficult conversations. The club organises monthly trips to places such as restaurants, cinemas and comedy clubs, helping build friendships and reduce isolation.
Community Support Matters
Luke Newman, CEO and founder of ‘For Men To Talk’, said: “Seeing 652 Co-op Members already choose ‘For Men To Talk’ as their cause is incredibly encouraging. Community support like this helps us continue creating safe spaces where men feel able to talk openly about their mental health. Every member who selects us makes a real difference.”
With the support of Co-op Members, ‘For Men To Talk’ can continue to grow and reach even more men who may be struggling.
If you are a Co-op Member, choosing the group as your local cause is a simple action that could help change lives.