A MEN'S social wellbeing group in York will continue their partnership with a major city venue.

Set up by five friends in 2018, Menfulness provides in-person and online support to men in the York area.

The charity has been chosen again by The Grand Opera House to be their nominated charity.

Matty Lewis, a trustee of the charity, said: “We are delighted that the Grand Opera House has chosen to continue our partnership, by choosing us as their nominated charity for 2024/5.

"The Grand Opera House have always ensured they promote us around the theatre, meaning that we can reach more men who may need our support.

"On top of that, their fundraising has been crucial in ensuring we can continue our counselling offer, meaning we can still offer professional help to men who are struggling with their mental health with very little wait, and without a financial barrier. 

"The team are amazing people to work alongside, and their passion for supporting us is incredible.”

The charity was introduced to support men who are struggling with their mental health and provide a safe space to talk and socialise at events.  In addition to the community events, the charity also raises funds to provide urgent counselling for those men at crisis point.

They say: “79 per cent of all suicides are by men. We are aware that we can’t solve every man’s issues, but not facing them alone really does help. By bringing guys together to laugh, talk and sometimes cry can be the difference.”

To coincide with this week's World Suicide Prevention Day, fundraising will begin during the School of Rock show, starting this Friday (September 13).  Updates on this will be available via the theatre's social media channels.

Grand Opera House York theatre director, Laura McMillan, said: "It's so important to us that we are able to raise funds this incredible charity which supports and helps so many men who are struggling with their mental health, providing urgent counselling for those who need it.  At the Grand Opera House we are passionate about supporting the local community and, with help from audience members, we hope over the next 12 months to raise awareness as well as funds for this worthwhile cause."

Anyone can contact the charity at any time via their website menfulness.org or their email hello@menfulness.org