Healthwatch Fella’s Forum are creating safe spaces, where men can support one another in speaking openly about their experiences with mental health conditions, whilst taking part in enjoyable activities. The Fella’s Forum within North East Essex are embracing community, conversation and movement for the purpose of improving their physical and mental wellbeing.
Creating Safe Spaces for Men to Talk and Connect
With mental health challenges on the rise, these welcoming, judgement free environments are essential. Mind reported in response to the Adult Psychiatric Morbidity Survey released in June 2025, that 15.4% of men in England are living with a Common Mental Health Condition, such as anxiety or depression. Therefore, it is so important that men have accessibility to a space where they feel comfortable to speak openly about their physical and mental wellbeing. Fantastic initiatives like the Fella’s Forum have created the perfect environment to do just that.
The sessions are held in various places, it can be from fishing lakes to community grounds and include all different activities like table tennis, gardening, golf and walking. The aim is not just about fitness. It’s about enjoyment and supporting their mental wellbeing, leaving them feeling less isolated, more grounded and connected with other likeminded men.
One participant said
‘“I’ve met lots of gents who I would never have met if I hadn’t come along and created some fab new connections too. The group allows us to chat about what we like and there is a sense of feeling comfortable whilst there. I’ve also tried activities I would never have dreamed of doing before.”
The sessions are communicated through a WhatsApp group to ensure all members are aware of location, activity and timings. With Healthwatch Essex staff leading the sessions, they can also provide further support and resources to anyone if needed.
The Power of Movement and Volunteering
The Fella’s Forum offers low pressure, enjoyable physical activities which participants can engage with at their own pace. These sessions include light, accessible physical activity to get people moving for their mind, which is the ethos of the Active Essex, Find Your Active ‘Move for Your Mind’ campaign.
This initiative encourages physical activity in support of mental wellbeing. Whether that is small movements or team sports, it’s all about finding what’s right for you and embracing movement that feels good. Physical activity is more than just exercise, it’s a great way to heal, connect and build resilience. Not only that but being active is a great way to reduce stress, boost your mood and improve overall wellbeing. If you want to find out more about the Find Your active ‘Move for Your mind’ campaign and its impact, you can read more about it here.
The purpose of the Fella’s Forum activity sessions is to gently increase physical activity levels, whilst having that safe space for men to converse and build meaningful connections. As well as that, volunteering has also become a big part of the programme. By having this opportunity for them, it provides a sense of purpose and feeling like a valued member of the community. They can help at community bonfires or support a member with projects at allotments.
What’s Next for the Fella’s Forum
With pilot programmes now expanding into Braintree and Harlow, as well as increasing opportunities for volunteering and informal meetups, the Fella’s Forum is developing into an essential community asset.
Scott Tatum, Engagement Manager at Healthwatch Essex, shared:
“We at Healthwatch Essex are so grateful for initial funding from Active Essex that enabled us to develop the Fella Forums. Witnessing the improvements in physical and mental wellbeing and reducing social isolation across Essex has been brilliant to see, with much impact evident. Having a close working relationship with Active Essex has ensured we have been able to draw on their expertise and enhance the forums. This strong relationship has also ensured that in each place a network is evident to enable men’s health and wellbeing organisations to come together, support each other, and share best practice”
By having programmes like this, it allows us to create less of a burden on GP visits and hospital admissions by reducing mental health conditions in Essex. Having the space to confide in one another without fear of judgement, is a huge benefit on the economy and the individuals themselves.
One member explained that:
“Just hanging out with you guys makes a difference. I’m not on my own all the time. For a few hours I get to forget my problems and just enjoy myself.”
The Fella’s Forum is a great example how moving for your mind can support your own and other people’s mental wellbeing. They are breaking down stigmas, reducing isolation and improving overall wellbeing in men’s lives one session at a time. It’s not just about exercise but building a space in which you feel safe to be open and share your thoughts. If you want to learn more or get involved, then visit Healthwatch Essex and explore how you can support or refer into the Fella’s Forum.
