Wetherby charity’s men’s breakfast club grows in mental health boost bid

A Wetherby charity’s breakfast club for gents is breaking barriers and boosting mental health for a growing number of men across the borough. 

Wetherby in Support of the Elderly (WiSE) set up the weekly Men’s Breakfast Club in response to growing demand for support for isolated men of all ages.

Now men regularly gather at the WiSE Owl Café at Boston Spa Village Hall each Friday for a chat with others over a bacon bap and a brew, with regulars hailing the camaraderie between such a diverse group of people. 

Gavin Davies, aged 64 from Boston Spa, said: “The club started in June last year when  the previous manager at the cafe noticed there were a number of men who would come into the cafe and sit by themselves. She thought they might benefit from being brought together.  

“She approached me and my friend Ian who are regulars – she knew that I'd set up another men's group in the village (for a different demographic) which continues to be very successful. So, we set a date for the 'WiSE Men's Club' at Boston Spa and we were off. 

“We now have seventeen members from Boston Spa, Wetherby, Clifford and Walton. Gentlemen have come together and friendships have been made. Conversation is very varied and the personalities shine through. Many of us have been drawn to the club for different reasons, but one thing that unites us is good company in a relaxed, supportive environment.  

“As the group has expanded we often now meet in the main hall (when it's available) - it's good to have that facility! The Gents keep coming back! I think they would highlight the camaraderie of the group, and the welcoming environment.  

“We are a diverse group: a retired builder from Bradford, an ex Etonian, backgrounds include in insurance, IT, sales, education, medicine and a retired Master Butcher. They come to talk and to listen. The conversations are hugely varied - nothing is off the table and one of the most refreshing things for me is how much people have been prepared to share. Memories, grief, highs and lows. Reminiscence, the past, the present and the future.   

“Some of the group have been kind enough to describe the club as the highlight of their week. 

“To anyone who has considered coming along I'd encourage them to give it a go – we are very welcoming. If you try it and don't like it, you don't have to come again! But if you do like it, keep on coming.   

“I'd like to thank staff and all the volunteers who make it happen - in the kitchen, making cakes, serving, front of house - the many in the background. We are very grateful for everything they do. The food and drinks are excellent, and the home-made cakes are wonderful – something for everyone.” 

Men of all ages and backgrounds are welcome to join the gents every Friday from 10.15am at the WiSE Owl Café at Boston Spa Village Hall.  

For more information, visit www.w-ise.org.uk or email jon@w-ise.org.uk