Helping to foster transparency around mental health, Chris and Thomas evolved their Holistic Wellbeing Hub and started Talk 2 a Brother – a platform where men could come together in a safe and open space. Their focus evolved around identifying typical stigmas, breaking taboos and openly addressing controversial issues. The group gives men of all ages from different backgrounds the opportunity to provide and receive peer-to-peer support.
Chris and Thomas recorded their first Talk 2 a Brother podcast episode in 2020 which was positively received by the community. They also started a Whatsapp group to stay connected digitally with over 110 men, providing a confidential and supportive online space for discussions. The group ensures members are connected to local services and holds activities around relationships, personal growth, fitness, health and well-being. This voluntary and grassroots initiative is supported by local Community organisation Floating Counselling.
The group is designed to support guys who are in the same place I was when I met Chris — stuck in a rut, wanting to feel better about myself but not knowing where to start. The space we have created is not for everyone; it’s just for people who are looking for peer-to-peer support, somewhere just to hang out and talk.
Thomas “Fitter Fathers” Scannell, co-founder
Tom, myself and many brothers in our groups can tell you that this community is a lifeline for men who are where I used to be — feeling gridlocked in life, eager for a sanctuary of self-improvement, but lacking direction, purpose and inner peace. Our community isn’t a one-size-fits-all; it’s tailor-made for those seeking solidarity, a friendly ear and a chill spot to just be and share in the journey.
Chris “Yampower” Otokito, co-founder
Not wanting to miss an opportunity to build community connections, Chris and Thomas also organised a foodbank which delivers food and toiletries to those in need. They’ve worked with the local community in schools, homeless shelters and churches to signpost people for support and information as well as making important referrals to mental health services when needed.
Working with Talk 2 a Brother to share NHS messages
To help reach the male community living in Croydon, NHS South West London worked with Talk 2 a Brother to organise a podcast as part of the NHS winter engagement fund. The programme awarded small grants to community organisations to run activities that support local people, raising awareness of community health services, preventing ill health and vaccinations.
The panel was joined by Dr Dev Malhotra (GP at Brigstock Medical Practice & Mental Health Lead for NHS Croydon) and Rasheed Giwa (Programme Director for the Ethnicity and Mental Health Improvement Project (EMHIP) who talked about men’s mental health. Dr Dev Malhotra also shared key NHS messages around staying well during the winter.
Dr Dev Malhotra said: “I was heartened by the open and honest discussions amongst the participants and their support for one another. The discussions were non-judgmental, relevant and appropriate for what traditionally has been a challenging area, due to historical stigma”.
