Men’s mental health group branches out to Batley

Father-of-three Tom Nolan, who lives in Dewsbury Moor, 35, is leading the charge in Batley to help men struggling with mental health.

Mr Nolan has said the group, which is a branch of the West Yorkshire-founded Andy’s Man Club, is into its sixth week, but has seen a low number count due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Mr Nolan said: “The group has seen a lack of number which I believe is due to the pandemic.

“People who could be struggling in Batley due to the Covid situation may not know there’s a group set up which could help them.”

Mr Nolan, who is the group’s lead facilitator, said he was motivated to start the group after his previous battles with mental health.

“In the past, I’ve had troubled relationships and addictions,” he said.

Mr Nolan’s personal issues were couple with losing his grandma Audrey Consiglio, 69, three years ago.

“I spiralled and I would hate for anyone to go through what I went through.

“That’s what this group is about; to provide a safe place to others or give somewhere to go if they’re lonely, which is a major issue during the pandemic,” he said.

Although the turnout to the Batley group has been low, Mr Nolan said he has seen improvements to people who have attended.

He said: “It’s about talking.

“I was always putting a front on when I shouldn’t have been.

“I’ve spoken to my partner Suzanne Conway, who has helped me through the dark times and it’s about helping others now - and looking after my three kids Perissa, Teddy and Joey.”

The two-hour group session is every Monday starting at 7pm.

Due to the coronavirus, Mr Nolan has asked any who wishes to attend to contact: [email protected].

Andy’s Man Club was formed by former professional Halifax Rugby League player Luke Ambler after his cousin, Andy Roberts, 23, died by suicide in April 2016.

Groups meet weekly and challenge the stigma surrounding men talking about their mental health.