Created by a group of men passionate about removing the stigma surrounding men’s mental health, the Mandem Meetup mission is to build judgement-free spaces across the city, for anyone who associates as male, to open up and share what’s going on in their lives within a safe and relaxed environment.
With men’s mental heath posing a huge threat to the livelihoods of so many, safe spaces like this are so needed, and Manchester is leading the way. The format of the talking circle is simple – men of all ages and walks of life meet up at The Village Hall at Great Northern Warehouse, once a fortnight to have a brew and share how they’re feeling, be it physically, emotionally or spiritually.
The community group has kick-started 2023 with ‘Poetic Hooligans’, a series of workshops which encourage men to talk about their struggles and express themselves in an artistic way. The monthly workshop welcomes men of all creative abilities to write poems, songs, and chants that embrace masculine experiences.
Led by Manchester-based rapper and social justice activist Magic EKJ, Poetic Hooligans, which has its first session on February 17th, was created to help men across Greater Manchester vocalise personal struggles and learn about themselves, whilst improving their mental health and helping others.
Ben Rutter, Operations Director at Mandem Meetup, said: “As a nation, we’ve come a long way in understanding and supporting mental health, yet men are still treated differently.
“We care about our fellow brothers, our mandem, we want them to know that there’s always a safe space for them to share their feelings. Mental health is just as important as physical health, and we want to raise awareness for this across Greater Manchester.”
Mark Schofield, Centre Director of Great Northern Warehouse, said: “Mandem Meetup embodies our inclusive and supportive community at Great Northern Warehouse. We’re proud of the work they’re doing for mental health and feel confident that they will make a real difference throughout Greater Manchester.”
The Mandem Meetup Deansgate Talking Circle is hosted every second Tuesday from 18:00. The next Poetic Hooligans workshop will take place onFebruary 17, 7pm-9pm. For future dates check the Mandem Meetup Instagram here.
Find the Mandem Meetup at The Village Hall, Deansgate Mews, Great Northern House, M3 4EW.