Talk Club was initially funded through St Monica Trust's Improving Connections Fund and later received continuation funding to help sustain and grow its vital work supporting older men across the region.
While Talk Club operates nationally, St Monica Trust's funding has specifically supported the development and growth of groups serving older men across the West of England.
Since receiving funding, Talk Club has continued to expand both its reach and impact among men aged 55+, a group at increased risk of loneliness, poor mental health and suicide. Through a network of 37 groups across Bath & North East Somerset, Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire, Talk Club creates opportunities for connection through conversation, exercise, sport, crafts and shared interests.
The groups provide safe, welcoming spaces where men can open up, support one another and realise they are not alone in the challenges they face.
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What's beneficial about Talk Club for me is that it gives me somewhere to go and talk about everything that upsets me and what I'm struggling with in life, and to know I'm not alone in it all. I can say it without judgement to those who are there to listen. “ ”
Talk Club member, Worle, aged 64
For many participants, Talk Club has been life-changing.
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I'm 60 and have struggled with my mental health for more than 15 years. I've tried counselling, CBT, support from my doctor, family and friends, but nothing really helped long term. Last autumn was a very bad time for me and I came close to suicide. I promised my doctor I would try Talk Club, but I put it off for months because the thought of opening up in front of strangers terrified me. When I finally went, that first meeting was incredible. It was emotional, but the support and non-judgemental atmosphere were uplifting. At long last, I had found a place where I was with men who were struggling just like me. I could relate to what they were saying and no longer felt alone. Thank God for Talk Club and every other support service out there. It's saving lives. “ ”
Talk Club member, aged 60
Through its growing network of groups, Talk Club is making a significant contribution to reducing loneliness, improving mental well-being and strengthening community connections for older men across the West of England. By providing spaces where men feel able to talk openly and support one another, Talk Club is helping to create healthier, more connected communities and, in some cases, saving lives.