In Somerset, where men are 2.5 times more likely to die by suicide than women, local groups are taking innovative approaches to mental health support through community-based initiatives. And they’re making a huge difference.
Somerset Community Foundation (SCF) recently awarded £5,000 to Talk Club and over £80,000 to 12 Men’s Sheds across the county since 2017. The funding helps these groups deliver vital mental health support in local communities.
This crucial work supports the theme of Mental Health Awareness Week (12-18 May), which celebrates community as essential for mental wellbeing.
“As 1 of 47 UK Community Foundations, we see how community activities greatly benefit wellbeing,” said Andy Ridgewell, Programmes Director for SCF. “Our research identifies vulnerable groups, allowing us to fund local organisations addressing these challenges. Talk Club and Men’s Sheds exemplify this approach.”
A growing mental health challenge*
The mental health crisis in Somerset has worsened in recent years:
- Since 2018, adults reporting long-term mental health conditions have increased by 11%.
- Depression rates exceed both national and South West regional averages.
- People’s happiness, life satisfaction, and sense of worth have all declined as anxiety levels rise.
- Suicide rates among men are 16% higher than the England average.
Despite these concerning statistics, men are less likely to seek help. Women refer themselves for mental health treatment at almost double the rate of men and represent 58.9% of mental health admissions compared to 41.1% for men.
Creating spaces where men feel comfortable seeking help
SCF provided a £5,000 grant to Talk Club in 2024, a national men’s mental health charity, to expand their reach in the county. The charity plans to open 5 new groups in west Somerset and the Taunton area, with the goal of supporting around 370 local men a year.
Ben Akers, Co-CEO/Co-Founder of Talk Club, explained: “As a society, there are many expectations and traditional gender roles that make men less likely to discuss or seek help for their mental health challenges. Our groups offer a safe space for men to share how they feel and listen to others –something that can save lives.”
“Since we were founded in 2019, over 100 men have told us they’re only here because of the community we’ve created,” Akers added. “Looking at the statistics, we know there’s a need to grow our presence in Somerset, and we’re building on our Talk & Listen group currently operating in Bridgwater.”
Men’s Sheds: Building wellbeing through practical activity
Research suggests men engage more readily with mental health support that meets their preferences: accessible, meaningful and engaging programmes often centred around practical activities rather than direct discussion of emotions.
The Men’s Shed movement showcases this approach. As part of the UK Men’s Shed Association, these community spaces offer opportunities for local men to become ‘Shedders’ who make, repair and repurpose items through neighbourhood projects. According to the UKMSA Health and Wellbeing Survey 2023, 88% of regular Men’s Shed attendees feel connected with their wider community.
Peter Nash from Shepton Mallet Men’s Shed shared: “We established our Shed in 2017, and it’s been growing ever since, now with over 30 members. We have a variety of Shedders, some facing challenges such as recent loss of a partner or communication barriers. Having the Shed as a space to socialise, use skills, and feel purposeful to the wider community has helped people overcome some of these issues.”
How you can help
Want to support grassroots mental health initiatives in Somerset? The Somerset Wellbeing Fund directs donations to local groups addressing wellbeing challenges. The Fund is part of SCF’s wider Collective Giving Funds, allowing individuals and businesses to contribute alongside others to drive meaningful change in their communities.
To learn more about supporting these life-changing mental health initiatives, or to make a donation, visit: www.somersetcf.org.uk/giving/collective-giving-funds