Mandem Meetup is a grassroots charity promoting, correcting and improving the conversation around men’s mental health and wellbeing. We provide an open, inclusive community for all those who identify as a man, integrating a range of social, holistic and more ‘traditional’ forms of clinical support, ranging from psycho-social interventions and recreational activities, to practical advice and guidance, as well as talking therapy and more. That’s our ‘official’ answer. What we really are – at heart – is ordinary people, just like you; offering a relaxed, comfortable, and judgement-free space built to empower you to be yourself. So, come as you are. You’re welcome here.
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Our vision:
To live in a society unplagued by sky-high rates of male suicide, depression and
struggle.
Our mission:
To remove the stigma around men’s mental health by forging safe spaces where men
can be their authentic selves, all without pressure, judgement, or expectation.
How we will achieve our mission:
Community is the pillar of all we do. In fact, the way we operate is designed to create them, by bringing men together in ways that promote
MANDEM WALK:
Our hikes and local walks encourage our members to step out of the city environment and reconnect with nature, providing space not just to relax from the hustle and bustle of daily life, but to practice a physical exercise, and improve their mental health, all while standing shoulder-to-shoulder with peers. The natural world is a free, readily available and powerful healer, one we’re always keen to utilise.
MANDEM TALK:
Our talking circles are where we lighten the load. Here, every man is given the time, space and attention they need to share how they’re feeling, or even just sit back and listen to others if they so wish. And we get it – voicing how we feel isn’t always easy, especially when society tells us to just bottle it up and keep cracking on. To make things manageable, we break it down into five categories: how we feel physically, how we feel mentally, how we feel in our relationships, and how we feel spiritually (whatever that means to you as an individual), before naming the things we’re grateful for. Of course, this isn’t a strictly enforced format – we welcome long venting, occasional irrelevant tangents, and always, most importantly, a good dose laughter.
MANDEM TRAIN:
We provide unintimidating, encouraging and inclusive spaces for men to come and engage their bodies and minds through physical exercise. Led and informed by fully qualified personal trainers and career fitness enthusiasts, we cater to all levels of physical fitness and body types. There’s no trophies for first place with us; we’re all about having a go. It’s not about reaching the finish line, we’re just glad to see you in the race.
MANDEM LEARN:
New friends. New knowledge. New skills. Whether it’s an educational workshop dedicated to tackling difficult conversations, a poetry workshop to help you express yourself through creativity, or a craft-based session with professional photographers who’ll help stop your Instagram uploads looking like your Grandma took them – there’s always something interesting for you to come and get involved in. This ‘mental health’ malarkey ain't all doom and gloom, y’know!
MANDEM HELP
Our outreach extends well beyond the Mandem, and into the all-too-often overlooked parts of our society where men need help most. Whether it’s those without a home, those in unstable accommodation or those fleeing violence, we provide free access to personal care, clothing and food – all driven voluntarily by our community members. This way, not only do we act as a critical lifeline for those in desperate need of one, but we also provide our members with a sense of purpose, value and fulfilment.
Our values:
Communication –
No man should be silent. Holding a safe space in which we can express our raw, honest selves helps alleviate some of the burden from our backs, and what you have to say might even offer a different perspective to someone listening. A problem shared, is a problem halved.
Understanding – No man is here to fix another. Firstly, because you’re not broken. Secondly, because we’re not here to respond – we’re here to listen. If you want some advice, we can do that too. But for now, this is your time to share. Take as long as you need.
Community – No man is an island. We don’t always like to admit it, but we all want to
feel a sense of belonging. A group of friends we proudly stand beside, who know you by
name, and say it with a smile every time.
Authenticity – No man needs to change. Whether you’re a millionaire, or you need a few
quid for the bus back, there’s no need to get all dressed up when you’re with the Mandem.
After all, we’ve never been into keeping up appearances. Come as you are, you’re welcome
here.
Honour – No man left behind. There’s no hierarchy or favouritism for particular individuals
with us – we do what’s morally right for our community as a whole. Every. Single. Time.