On the night they opened their doors, Red Devils player, Andrew Dixon and Player Welfare Officer, Chris O’Connor went down to the centre at at Emirates Old Trafford Cricket Ground in Stretford to meet the team and show their support for such an incredible facility. Available to any man over the age of 18, ANDYSMANCLUB are looking to eliminate the stigma surrounding mental health and create a space where men can speak openly about the struggles in their lives. Sessions are free to attend and are available every Monday evening from 7-9pm. For more specific information on the Stretford centre, click HERE to visit their Facebook page. ANDYSMANCLUB was founded in mid-2016 by Elaine Roberts and Luke Ambler, the mum, and brother-in-law of Andrew Roberts, who sadly took his own life, earlier that year. Luke is a former Ireland international rugby league player; most notable for his six-year stint at Halifax, but the former prop also made one appearance for Salford in 2008, before moving to Leeds Rhinos. What started as a small centre in Halifax has now grown into something really special, with over 3000 men now using the service across the UK. After visiting the centre on Monday evening, Dixon said: “It was brilliant to get down and show support for such an amazing cause like ANDYSMANCLUB and see the incredible facilities at Lancashire cricket club. “Providing the space for people to talk in the form of peer to peer support groups is massive for the community and anyone thinking about attending should have a look at the services they provide.” Anthony Crook of ANDYSMANCLUB, added: “Aside from bank holidays, we run every Monday of the year. “No referrals or bookings are needed to attend, so you can turn up before 7pm on any Monday you’re comfortable with. You’re under no pressure to talk any more or less than you’re ready for. Everyone goes at their own pace. “All our facilitators are attendees as well, so it’s truly an empathetic, non-judgemental place to go and talk about what’s on your mind.” Visit their website and find out more about what fantastic services that provide by clicking HERE.
