Chester-le-Street Rowing Club teams with The Men’s Shed to boost men’s mental health

The move means the charity can provide further sessions where men can receive mental health support and participate in activities and exercise programs at the rowing club.

The Men’s Shed, which has over 100 members, aims to reduce the stigma around men seeking support by creating a safe and confidential space for discussions about mental health and wellbeing.

Arran Lewcock, Chester-le-Street Club Captain, said: “Sport, exercise and belonging to a team are proven to have a hugely positive impact on mental health. This is why the club decided to reach out into our community and add something extra to The Men’s Shed.”

The first session for members of The Men’s Shed was hosted in the club’s newly refurbished community cafe, The Arc, where participants were welcomed with hot drinks and snacks. The informal session addressed issues such as social isolation and anxiety.

The coaching team at the club aim to show the men the skills required for rowing are transferrable to everyday life, and they can use them to deal with situations they face.

The Men’s Shed lead support worker, Andy Mastrangelo, said: “The support and access that Arran and the rowing club have provided has been fantastic and we look forward to continuing to work together.”

Sessions take place weekly, and the numbers of participants is increasing.

Arran said: “As a club we are playing a small, but especially important, part in our community and giving back to the local people that support us. Never has it been more important to talk and reach out and hopefully, through greater exposure, we can recruit new members and really promote rowing and the value our club brings to the area.”

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