A Wirral-based charity dedicated to men's mental health is urgently calling for more local men to engage with its expanding programme of free activities, designed to fight loneliness and isolation head-on. The Mersey Mind Project provides complimentary football sessions, a fitness boot camp, and peer support meetings through The Listening Space to help men connect and enhance their wellbeing.
Comprehensive Support for Men's Wellbeing
Since its launch in 2025, the charity has already assisted hundreds of men across the region by establishing safe and welcoming environments where they can socialise, communicate openly, and boost their mental health. Thanks to recent funding, the organisation now has capacity to welcome additional participants to its weekly activities, ensuring more men can benefit from these vital services.
Football Therapy: Building Connections Through Sport
At the core of the charity's offerings is its highly popular Football Therapy programme, which takes place every Monday and Thursday. These relaxed and friendly matches provide men with the opportunity to enjoy physical activity while forging meaningful connections with others. Currently, free spaces are available for the Thursday night session, running from 9pm to 10pm, making it accessible for those with busy schedules.
The Listening Space: A Safe Haven for Conversation
For individuals who prefer a more dialogue-focused setting, the charity hosts The Listening Space groups every Tuesday evening from 6:30pm to 8pm at The Sandbrook Centre in Moreton. These informal sessions create a non-judgemental atmosphere where men can openly share experiences and support one another. Attendees are greeted with a warm welcome, along with refreshments like tea and coffee, snacks, and games to ease conversation. Additionally, the charity organises free monthly walk and talk groups to encourage outdoor interaction.
Fitness Boot Camp: Strengthening Body and Mind
Midweek, participants can enhance both their physical and mental health at a free Wednesday boot camp, conducted by a personal trainer at Wirral Strength & Fitness. Starting at 7.30pm, this circuit-based session is tailored to accommodate various fitness levels, recognising the intrinsic link between physical activity and mental wellbeing.
Mission and Impact
Mersey Mind Project was founded with a clear objective: to help men feel less isolated and more capable of discussing their mental health. By integrating sport, fitness, and peer support, the charity has witnessed numerous success stories, with many participants reporting increased confidence, stronger friendships, and overall improved wellbeing.
Co-founder Chris Guy emphasised the inclusivity of the sessions, stating, "The sessions are open to any man who might benefit, regardless of background or experience. You don't have to be sporty or struggling to come along—it's about connection, getting out of the house, and knowing you're not on your own. We've built a real brotherhood—a growing community of men and a support network that can be a real lifeline in times of need."
He further highlighted the ongoing importance of addressing men's mental health, adding, "Men's mental health is talked about a lot more thankfully, but it's still the case that most suicides are male. Through free sport, activities, and peer support, we offer men a safe space to get out and connect with others. We have some exciting things coming up too, such as a big charity match at Prenton Park and competing in the Mental Health World Cup at Goodison Park."
Accessibility and Community Focus
All activities provided by Mersey Mind Project are free to attend, eliminating financial barriers and ensuring support is accessible to as many individuals as possible. Whether through football, the fitness boot camp, or simply connecting at The Listening Space sessions, the charity continues to offer local men a secure space and robust support network to guarantee they never face challenges alone.
