THIS week marks Mental Health Awareness Week (May 12 to 18), and this year’s theme - community - couldn’t be more relevant.

In Central Devon, we are fortunate to have local groups and volunteers working tirelessly to support mental wellbeing and create spaces where people feel connected, supported, and heard.

A strong community can be the foundation of good mental health. It provides us with a sense of belonging, purpose, and stability - all of which are vital, particularly in challenging times.

Across our region, there are inspiring examples of local initiatives making a real difference, and one that stands out is Andy’s Man Club, which recently launched a new group in Okehampton.

I had the privilege of visiting the Okehampton branch of Andy’s Man Club, a charity that offers peer-to-peer support groups for men across the UK.

According to the British Psychological Society, suicide is still the leading cause of death among men under 45. In fact, the highest suicide rate in the UK is recorded for men aged 40 to 44. So, the importance of this work cannot be overstated.

The team told me that on average, one man takes his life every two hours in the UK - a harrowing statistic that reminds us why initiatives like Andy’s Man Club are essential.

During my visit, I met with Steve Doyle, the South West Area Lead, and Simon Chudley, the facilitator of the Okehampton group. Hearing their stories, and those of the men attending, was incredibly moving.

The group meets every Monday at 7pm at the Granite Way Café on Klondyke Road, opposite Okehampton station. There’s no need to book or be referred – men can simply turn up and talk, or just listen if they prefer.

What struck me most when talking to Steve and Simon was the sense of camaraderie and trust among the group.

In a society where men are still too often encouraged to bottle up emotions, Andy’s Man Club offers a safe and supportive environment where vulnerability is seen as a strength.

The conversations are real, raw, and honest - and that’s exactly what makes them powerful.

I was first introduced to the charity last year during Men’s Mental Health Month, when I met Lucas Whitehead from Andy’s Man Club at an event in Parliament.

I promised then that I would visit the new Okehampton group when it opened – and I’m so glad I did. It reaffirmed to me just how crucial local support networks are for mental health.

Mental health challenges don’t discriminate. According to the NHS, one in four people in England will experience a mental health issue.

These statistics represent real people - our friends, neighbours, colleagues, and family members. That’s why community-led efforts like this one in Central Devon is so vital.

This Mental Health Awareness Week, I encourage everyone in our community to take a moment to check in with one another.

Whether it’s joining a group, starting a conversation, or simply offering a listening ear, each small act of support helps build a healthier, more connected Central Devon.