Venue joy for new mental health group in Wigan

A venue has been secured for a new Wigan walking and talking group set up to help men open up about their emotions.

Men Walking Tall was only launched last month to create a space where men can relax and talk about how they feel.

Now they have been able to find a premises at One House Community Centre, in Aspull, while they are hoping for some financial support from local councillors.

Wigan dad Thomas Cottom, who launched the group with friends Dean Roby and Dale Rigby, said he was “delighted” that a venue has been found.

Mr Cottom, who has struggled in the past with anxiety, said: “One House came to us saying that we could use their venue, while we have got some councillors who are looking at giving us some financial backing.

“We are intending to use the building as a hub where the group can do activities and meet and talk and have a brew, and where we can give them information.

“I am delighted.”

The 29-year-old, from New Springs, said the group started on Facebook and has already met up for walks.

When battling his anxiety, he found that walking and other forms of exercise such as the gym and boxing, was good for his mental health.

And he is hoping to encourage others to join and take part in the walking and talking group.

He said: “I’m amazed at how far we’ve progressed already as a group and we’ve even had the Lad Bible on Facebook saying they want to interview us about it.

“I would encourage anyone to come down and give it a try whether they have a mental health problems or not.

“We just want this to be a space where people can feel comfortable.

“The news about the venue is fantastic and really gives us a launchpad to progress as a group.”

People who need someone to talk can contact the Samaritans for free from any telephone on 116 123.

Or you can email [email protected] (response time 24 hours) or go to www.samaritans.org to find details of your nearest branch, where you can talk to one of their trained volunteers face to face.

The charity provides emotional support to anyone in emotional distress, struggling to cope, or at risk of suicide throughout the UK.

Other organisations that can help you in a time of crisis include Anxiety UK, CALM, Mind and PAPYRUS.

For more information on these organisations, visit the NHS website and search for mental health helplines.