Andy's Man Club Morecambe has recorded more than 1,200 visits in its first year of operation. The free, peer-to-peer mental health support group for men meets every Monday at the Halo Aerospace Stadium, home of Morecambe Football Club.
The group celebrated its first anniversary this month, having opened last year. On that first night, 40 men attended. Twelve months later, local men had returned a total of 1,206 times. Volunteers from the group recently met to recognise this achievement. "They were unsure if anyone would show up," they said.
Attendance is voluntary with no commitment or judgement. Organisers said how often men attend is entirely up to them, with some members attending every week, some coming monthly and others simply dropping in occasionally. Newcomers are greeted by a facilitator in branded clothing, with signs outside the stadium to guide the way. Sessions offer hot drinks and biscuits and follow a relaxed, non-clinical format using a talking ball to encourage sharing.
The group's presence at the stadium provides a vital community service as the football club handles its National League - North season.
Andy's Man Club operates over 350 venues nationwide. The Morecambe branch meets from 7pm to 9pm every Monday, except on Bank Holidays. More information is available on the group's official website.
This story first appeared at thevisitor.co.uk
