Newport Live’s Wellness Team have launched the Happier Healthier Men project, a new 12 week pilot project for men aged 20 – 50 years living in Newport and the surrounding areas who are looking to improve their mental health and wellbeing, are physically inactive or socially isolated. The project will use a range of interactive and needs-led approaches as well as provide a safe, non-judgemental space for men to socialise and speak openly about their mental health.
Project sessions will take place on a Monday evening at The Riverfront Theatre & Arts Centre and will focus on a range of topics including healthy eating, changing behaviour, sleep problems and drugs, gambling and alcohol addiction. Participants will also have the opportunity to partake in a range fitness session on a Thursday evening including the Couch to 5k initiative from Public Health England and the BBC, which was designed to encourage non-exercisers to take positive steps for their health and wellbeing. Access to Newport Live fitness facilities, including a range of personalised fitness support, will also be available to participants throughout the project duration.
Ellis Redman, Wellbeing Ambassador at Newport Live said “As a result of the pandemic, negative health behaviours such as physical inactivity and social isolation have increased tenfold and are key contributors to poor mental health. Newport Live’s Happier Healthier Men project will play a pivotal role in tackling the stigma and sense of taboo still surrounding men’s mental health. By attending the project we hope participants can reduce the time spent on their own by building social confidence by meeting others and develop friendships.”
Richard Dale, Head of Business Development at Newport Live said ”The aim of the project is to find support, encouragement, and commonality amongst the group. The focus is needs led by the participants with staff taking a steer on the direction required to meet the group’s needs. Lifestyle and behaviour changes are far more effective if you can surround yourself with likeminded individuals who are going to share and encourage you on your own personal journey. Newport Live is committed to reducing barriers to participation and developing projects that aim to inspire residents to be happier and healthier. ”
The intimate nature of the Happier Healthier Men project means a safe space has been created for a supportive peer group where participants can meet others who have mental health issues, speak openly and freely about men’s mental health, and learn from each other’s own experience.
To find out further information about the Happier Healthier Men project or to speak with Newport Live’s Wellness team email HHMproject@newportlive.co.uk or contact 01633656757.
