Life Leisure's Stockport Sports Village has become the proud home of Stockport's only Andy's Man Club, offering a safe, confidential space for men to talk openly about their mental health and connect with others in the community going through similar struggles. 

The launch comes during Men's Health Month (November), a time dedicated to raising awareness around men's physical and mental wellbeing. 

Andy's Man Club is a UK-wide suicide prevention charity that provides free, peer-to-peer support groups for men. With 320 groups (and counting) nationwide and over 6,500 men attending every week, its mission is simple yet life-changing: to end the stigma surrounding men's mental health and help men through the power of conversation. The charity's motto, 'It's okay to talk', has become a symbol of hope for thousands of men who might otherwise struggle in silence. 

Following the sad passing of local sporting legend Ricky Hatton, the community has been reminded why conversations about mental health are more important than ever. Known for his huge personality, talent, and love for Stockport, Ricky's loss has been felt deeply. 

"We know that men can often find it difficult to talk about how they're feeling, but opening up can truly save lives," said Jess Brown, Mental Health First Aider at Life Leisure. "Hosting Andy's Man Club here at Stockport Sports Village gives men in our community a safe place to share, listen, and see that they're not alone. It's so important for everyone to know that help and hope are always within reach." 

The new group at Stockport Sports Village will meet every Monday at 7.00pm (excluding bank holidays). No booking or referral is needed, just rock up and take a seat. 

As part of Life Leisure's ongoing commitment to supporting mental health and wellbeing across Stockport, this partnership highlights how community spaces like Life Leisure hubs can play a vital role in connecting people, breaking isolation, and encouraging open conversations about how we feel. 

For more information, visit andysmanclub.co.uk or follow Life Leisure on social media for updates.