Kirkcaldy men's mental health group set to move into a new base
Men’s mental health group, Pete’s Man Chat, is set to move into Linton Lane Centre when lockdown restrictions ease.
The group is moving from its original base at The Buffalo Farm in order to make it easier for members to attend its weekly meetings.
Pete Melville, founder, plans to run a weekly group, every Wednesday as soon as restrictions ease.
He said: "The centre holds a special place in my heart as I grew up in Templehall, and I was always kicking about the area.
"It makes sense to have a group there as there are lots of other services available and it is easier to get to than The Buffalo Farm.
"We’ll be looking at other venues in the near future as well to support as many people as we can in the area.”
He added: “I want people to come and to feel welcome, and in an environment where they won't be judged.
"I also want people to come who feel that they have something to offer, even if it is only to share their own experiences.”
Mandy Henderson, centre manager said: “We found out that Pete was looking for another venue slightly more accessible than the Sunday evening that is held at The Buffalo Farm he is running at present.
"And as we have a funding application in the waiting that will go towards supporting primarily a male demographic, the man chat movement will be an excellent fit at the centre.
Pete will be teaming up with John Bonthrone, who has created The Broken Wings Club, for men who’s had life changing events brought on by health issues.
"After bringing John in to chat with Pete, they think joining as Pete's chat movement as soon as we can will be a great thing,” she added.
“We are so happy Pete is joining us on a weekly basis. We do think men need the opportunity to chat with their peers.
“We all know the statistics for male suicide, and we hope being able to have a brew and a chew will give them the opportunity to chat, open up in a safe space, especially after a year of Covid escalating everyone's mental health.”