Breaking the Silence: Men’s Mental Health Support in Coventry & Warwickshire

Men’s mental health is a growing concern across the UK. Despite progress in awareness, stigma and societal expectations still prevent many men from seeking help. This is critical because men account for three-quarters of all suicides in the UK, with 14 men dying by suicide every day. The suicide rate for men in England stands at 17.1 per 100,000—the highest this century. [menandboys.org.uk]

Recent data shows that 1 in 7 men have been diagnosed with anxiety and 12.3% have experienced depression at some point, while 1 in 4 men report symptoms of depression or anxiety in the past two weeks. Yet, men remain less likely to access treatment compared to women, highlighting the urgent need for targeted support. [ourfutureh…lth.org.uk]

Local Support Initiatives

Coventry and Warwickshire offer a range of free or low-cost services designed specifically for men:

• Men Walking and Talking
  Peer-led walks in Kenilworth, Warwick, Stratford-upon-Avon, Solihull, Nuneaton, and soon Coventry. Weekly evening sessions encourage open conversation in a relaxed setting. Free of charge.
• MENTalk
  Run by Sky Blues in the Community, this program uses sport to tackle isolation and mental health challenges. Weekly sessions in Leamington Spa, Coventry, and Nuneaton include optional one-to-one support. Free of charge.
• Daniel’s Rise – Men’s Support Group
  Hosted by Helping Hands, this group combines a nourishing meal with conversation and creative projects like gardening and woodworking. Sessions are led by a support worker every Wednesday 12:30-2:30pm.
• Men’s Breakfast at The Open Door Café
  Monthly gatherings in Hampton Magna offer companionship over a hearty breakfast. Held once a month on the last Saturday of the month 9am-11am. Cost is £5 for a cooked breakfast
• Men’s Breakfast Social
  Held weekly at St Nicholas’ Church, Warwick Every Monday 10:30am -12:30pm – Enjoy a bacon roll and a hot drink whilst socialising with fellow attendees. Free of charge. Call 01926 494200 or email sophie.digesso@thegapwarwick.org.
• Andy’s Man Club
  A national movement with two Coventry groups and an online option. Meetings every Monday at 7pm provide a safe space for men to share and support each other. Free of charge.
• Men in Sheds
  Bringing men together through practical projects like repairing and repurposing items and enjoy conversation without pressure. Nearest Sheds are Cubbington, Bishop’s Itchington, Southam, Finham and Stratford-upon-Avon.

National Support Options

For those who prefer virtual or specialized support:

• Mentell – Free Online groups every Monday at 7pm.
• StrongMen – Peer support and free counselling for men coping with bereavement.
• MANUP? – Free therapy sessions and educational resources via Zoom.

Non-gender-specific services such as NHS Talking Therapies, Mind, and Samaritans remain available for anyone seeking help.

If you or someone you know is struggling, reaching out is the first step. These services are free or low-cost, and they exist to help men feel heard, supported, and connected.