244 - Helping Darnall Well Being continue operating their weekly men's group - March 2026

Our friends at Darnall Well Being told us about their weekly men's group, open to men from the local community, that focuses on socialising, exercise, learning, and lunch. This group has been active for about 10 years, evolving and changing throughout. Men's groups are becoming increasingly vital in tackling the 'quiet crisis' of male isolation, offering a structured and safe environment to discuss challenges such as relationships, grieving, mental health, and career pressures that men often face and are having to deal with alone. The group promotes in-person connections which positively lead to reducing isolation. Currently, they typically have around 20 participants each week. They also bring in guests to the group to enhance learning and awareness. For instance, recently Sheffield Mind visited, sharing valuable insights on anger management, mindfulness, and art. The group is open to men from the local community, providing a safe space where everyone can socialise and learn from one another. They also offer refreshments like tea, coffee, and sandwiches to help alleviate the cost-of-living crisis. Unfortunately, the funding that allowed DWB to provide light lunches, such as sandwiches and fruit, has come to an end and while they are able to continue running the group, they can no longer offer the much-needed lunches. This is where we have been asked for help. As our member explained, providing refreshments is not simply a practical addition; it is crucial to creating the safe, welcoming atmosphere that enables the group to function effectively. Many of the participants experience food poverty and fuel poverty. Starting the session with something to eat not only meets an immediate need but ensures that no one attends on an empty stomach, which can worsen stress and emotional strain. Offering food and a warm drink helps the men feel comfortable, grounded and ready to take part. It also gives space for informal conversation, allowing relationships to develop naturally before moving into the structured activities. We were only too pleased to be able to send £500, which will allow the group to continue to provide a light lunch ( a sandwich, fruit, biscuits, tea, coffee ) for this group for up to 15 sessions ( 3-4months). It sounds like an amazing provision.