A NEW group providing mental health support to local men is coming to Launceston.

In a first for Cornwall, national suicide prevention charity, Andy’s Man Club is launching a support group in Launceston. The organisation provides peer to peer talking groups for men over-18 who want to get things off their chest in a safe and supportive environment.

Andy’s Man Club’s area lead for the South West of England, Steve Doyle explained why Launceston has been chosen for this flagship group.

He told the Post: “When looking into the establishment of the first Andys Man Club in Cornwall we were approached by several people within the Launceston community to say that a talking group for men was needed in the area. When looking into this further we found that there were several people and organisations within the community who would be very helpful in getting the group established and raising awareness for it. Launceston is also a town which is in close proximity to areas in Devon which already have established Andy’s Man Club groups and can provide support to its setup.”

Steve explained that these groups provide a space for men to open up about struggles.

He said: “It is a confidential and non-judgemental space to talk and open up about any issues you have or struggles that you are going through. We don't have answers but we can provide a space in which problems can be shared and off loaded. It is also a regular outlet and space for support. You know that we will be in the same space, at the same time, every week.

“Groups such as Andy’s Man Club can be life saving for people and assist them in getting through difficult moments in their life. “

Andy’s Man Club Launceston will be held at The Orchard Centre, 7pm to 9pm every Monday from February 23.