The latest District Meeting was held at Accrington Masonic Rooms on the 20th March. Before the business of the evening was conducted, the Brethren were given a very enlightening presentation by Paul Smalley from the volunteer organisation, Lancashire Mind. Paul talked about the mental health issues that affect men, including suicide, depression and general anxiety issues. The statistics around male mental health are shocking and Paul and his team work with clients in their workplaces as well as holding drop in sessions in their centres across Blackburn with Darwen. The philosophy is to take help to the client where and when they need it, rather than having them visit a clinic environment. The Brethren were very engaged throughout, and Paul’s relaxed and approachable method of delivery prompted lots of discussion from the floor. The presentation ended with a donation of £250 to help fund the great work the Lancashire Mind team do across the District.
To find out more about the work of Lancashire Mind, please have a look at the Mind website at www.mind.org.uk
Article and Images: East Ribble District Team