New men’s support group opens at Derry's Millennium Forum
Feel Good At The Forum is a six week pilot programme that will provide a safe space for men aged 17-80 to socialise, receive support with mental health experiences and addictions
The Millennium Forum has just announced details of a brand new initiative that will see men from the local area come together for a series of workshops aimed at improving mental health, socialisation and support.
Feel Good At The Forum in association with Men’s Support Group organisers, Thomas Campbell and Liam Duffy, is a six week pilot programme that will provide a safe space for men aged 17-80 to socialise, receive support with mental health experiences and addictions as well as being an opportunity for them to meet new friends.
Each week, there will also be a guest speaker who will offer insights into their own personal experiences, providing an opportunity for open discussion.
Already, a number of well-known local men have agreed to speak at the workshops; they include Danny Quigley, Warren Villa, Gary Rutherford, Cahir Murray, Micky Doherty and Mark Durkhan. Local creative writing facilitator, Grainne McCool from The Write Stuff, will also host a workshop utilising the power of creative writing to boost positive mental health.
An exhibition of the work created over the six week period will be on display at the Millennium Forum from May 14 until June 4.
Speaking on this new project, Lisa Heaney, Box Office & Access Manager, commented: “We are delighted to be working with Thomas and Liam from the Men’s Support Group to offer this brand new initiative to the men of our community.
“It’s incredibly important for us to provide an all-inclusive space for everyone in our community and we look forward to welcoming everyone to these workshops.
“We have some incredible speakers lined up and we are especially looking forward to the creative writing workshops with Grainne McCool. I have no doubt that anyone who gets involved will greatly benefit from these sessions and we can’t wait to get started.”
Dolores O’Reilly, Access To Arts For All, added: “What could be better than bringing a group of men together to share, support and learn from each other in a secure and safe space.
“Feel Good at the Forum will provide an environment and opportunity for local men to find a purpose and meaning, a bit of banter and company; there is nothing more powerful than a cup of tea and good craic."
Feel Good At The Forum in association with Men’s Support Group begins at the Millennium Forum on Tuesday, April 9 at 7pm and runs each week until May 14.
Admission is free but booking is essential. Telephone the Box Office on 71 264455 (option 1) or visit millenniumforum.co.uk for details. Tea/coffee and biscuits will be provided.