Williams Senior Site Chemist, Fraser, is helping to break the stigma around men’s mental health.
Fraser first heard about Andy’s Man Club through a friend who saw he was struggling and wanted to help. That conversation marked the start of a journey that not only transformed Fraser’s life, but now helps hundreds of others every week.
Andy’s Man Club is on the front lines of breaking the stigma around men’s mental health. By promoting open and honest conversations, it helps men realise that it’s okay to talk – and that everyone goes through difficult times.
“Once it had helped me,” Fraser explains, “I wanted to get involved and ensure that the sessions could go ahead each and every Monday night.”
Fraser didn’t just become a regular attendee – he stepped up to run the group. Today, he’s the lead facilitator at the Southend branch of Andy’s Man Club, where he’s been volunteering for the past three years. He also recruits and supports new facilitators to help grow the network of peer-led support groups across the UK.
Andy’s Man Club has been running for nine years and now boasts over 300 locations nationwide. All meetings are at the same time – every Monday from 7pm to 9pm.
Every club session follows the same simple and consistent format, creating a sense of familiarity and security. The group works through five questions each week:
- How has your week been?
- One positive from your week?
- Anything to get off your chest?
The third question often opens the door to deeper conversations and personal sharing – it’s often the reason many men come to the club in the first place.
Questions 4 and 5 vary from week to week and are more light-hearted. For instance, question 4 might be: “What is your happy place and why?” – prompting members to reflect on something positive in their lives. Question 5 is typically a fun quick-fire round: “What’s your favourite biscuit?” – a surprisingly spirited debate, according to Fraser.
Creating a safe and welcoming environment is at the heart of Andy’s Man Club. There’s no registration, no referral, no record-keeping, and no pressure to speak. Newcomers are greeted by a specially trained facilitator member of the team, who helps them settle in, explains the format, and offers a cup of tea and a biscuit.
“What’s said in the circle stays in the circle,” Fraser says. “Everyone in that room knows what it feels like to walk through that door for the first time – because they’ve all done it.”
The group thrives on mutual respect, confidentiality, and empath with no judgement.
Fraser describes the transformation he’s seen in attendees using colours.
“Men usually arrive either red or grey – angry or distraught. We aim to get them to leave pink.” In just a few weeks, men who came in deeply depressed often become better equipped to handle life’s challenges, simply by knowing they’re not alone.
The sessions are deeply emotional at times – full of tears, laughter, and everything in between. “That’s why I do it,” Fraser says. “Because it matters.”
Facilitators also visit companies and organisations to raise awareness and talk about the club’s work. “We’re happy to answer questions, without any drama,” Fraser adds.
The biggest challenge? “Ensuring every man feels equally heard and never judged,” says Fraser. “Every share is someone opening a part of their personal life to a room full of strangers – and we have to hold that space with respect and consistency.”
The biggest reward? “The people. Watching men grow in confidence, support others, and sometimes go on to become facilitators themselves – that’s everything.”
If you’re nervous about attending your first session, Fraser has a simple message: “Do it.”
“The biggest and best step you can take is the one from your car to the venue. You’ll be welcomed, made to feel at ease, and introduced to like-minded people. It can be daunting – but it will change your life.”
How you can support Andy’s Man Club
- Join a session online if you can’t attend in person.
- Invite a regional lead to speak at your workplace or organisation.
- Donate to help keep the club free and accessible to all.
- Share their posts on social media to help spread the word.
- Visit the website for more info or email: info@andysmanclub.co.uk
“If you see us out and about, always say hello – we’ll always make time for you.”
