Words by Hema Chumber
The Men’s Health and Wellbeing Group, is a group for men looking to improve their health and wellbeing, who meet monthly at Highcroft Community Centre – located at 485 Slade Road, opposite Stockland Green Methodist Church and Stockland Green School.
Focused on providing a supportive and inclusive environment, the group aims to tackle the stigma surrounding men’s health, particularly mental health, and encourages men to actively take charge of their physical and emotional wellbeing.
Founded as a Community Interest Company (CIC), the group offers a range of activities from fitness classes to workshops and educational events, all designed to provide men with the tools, knowledge, and support they need to live healthier lives.
The group is committed to ensuring that men feel empowered to talk openly about their health and to foster a sense of community among participants.
Derrick Gidden, Chairman, said: “We want to create a space where men can feel comfortable talking about their health, without the stigma that often surrounds it.
“By sharing experiences and learning together, we can all improve our health.”
The group’s regular meetings at the Highcroft Community Centre have become a central point for local men seeking both social connection and valuable health resources.
Meetings feature expert speakers, covering topics such as stress management, physical fitness, and mental resilience.
These sessions encourage men to take small, manageable steps towards improving their wellbeing, making healthy living more accessible to all.
The Men’s Health and Wellbeing Group also organises physical activities to encourage men to stay active – including walking groups, football sessions, and fitness classes.
One of the group’s key initiatives was the Prostate Cancer Awareness Evening, which took place on 22 November 2024, at the Lighthouse Young People’s Centre in Birmingham.
This event brought together local men and women to learn more about prostate cancer, a health issue affecting thousands of men across the UK.
The evening featured expert presentations from Aidan Atkins from Tackle Prostate UK, Lindsay Thompson from Infopool, and Junior Hermans from Prostate Cancer UK’s Black Men’s Health Advisory Group.
After the event, Junior Hermans explained: “Prostate cancer isn’t just a men’s issue; it affects families and communities.
“By coming together to share knowledge and experiences at events like these, we can empower everyone to take proactive steps in their health journey.”
This event is just one example of the Men’s Health and Wellbeing Group’s ongoing efforts to raise awareness about men’s health issues and to create spaces where men can engage in conversations about topics that are often overlooked.
Its proactive approach has led to growing participation and a strong sense of community among its members.
The group is eager to welcome new participants, including local men looking for support, fitness opportunities, or simply a place to connect with others, with its diverse range of activities and resources.
For more information about the Men’s Health and Wellbeing Group, please visit their website at www.menshealth-wellbeing.co.uk
Or contact their team directly at [email protected]
Watch out for more COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT features from Erdington Local, online and in our monthly newspaper.
If you are from a community group or an active volunteer anywhere in the Erdington constituency then we want to hear for you. Please email our Community Reporter Hema Chumber at: [email protected]
