Charity Fundraising Proves it’s Good For Men To Talk In Leeds

A Leeds law firm shone a spotlight on men’s mental health recently, by hosting a range of talks and fundraising activities marking International Men’s Day on 19 November.

Sponsored by Kings Chambers, the “It’s okay to talk: a focus on men’s mental health” event at the Leeds office of Irwin Mitchell raised vital funds for Andy Man’s Club, a local charity aiming to half the number of suicides among men under 45.

In addition to networking over a beer and chilli; the presentations on mental health and wellbeing prompted some interesting discussions on topical issues among the attendees.

Professor John Morgan, the psychiatrist, who wrote the first self-help book for male eating and body image disorders, delivered a talk on the different pressures men face in today’s society.

Irwin Mitchell client Richard Bellerby spoke movingly about his son, who died following a battle with mental health and the campaigning he has been doing, to improve mental health risk assessments in hospitals.

Specialist Lung Cancer nurse Simon Bolton spoke about his experience of mental health and how it impacted his family; while lead personal injury partner Sion Kingston spoke about his own experiences of dealing with mental health in during his career.

The event was organised by IM Powered, established in 2008 as part of the firm's strategy to build an inclusive and supportive organisation by looking at gender-related issues and challenges faced by men and women within the firm.

Expert Opinion

“Being a responsible business is part of our DNA at Irwin Mitchell. We wanted to focus on raising awareness of issues affecting men especially mental health.

Male suicide remains the most common cause of death in men aged 25-49, so we want to encourage an environment in and out of work that says talking is important and asking for help is okay.

We were delighted to partner with Andy Man’s Club and raise funds to help the charity create new support groups across the country.” Ian Toft - Partner & Head of Asbestos and Occupational Disease (North)

The event followed a series of successful events held to mark International Women’s Day in March.