Full Breakdown
Moreton Men Sports Group: A Community Approach to Men's Mental Health
4/3/2026, 10:46:06 AM
Overview of the Initiative
The Moreton Men Sports Group, based in Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk, has emerged as an informal referral service for men's mental health, supported by the Norfolk and Suffolk NHS Foundation Trust (NSFT). Established in 2024 with just 15 members as a six-a-side football team, the group has expanded to over 200 participants, offering various activities including yoga, football, and darts. The NSFT refers men who do not require clinical intervention but could benefit from community support to this group.
Founder's Vision and Group Activities
Adam Townsend, 39, founded the Moreton Men Sports Group to address his own experiences with loneliness. He recognized a gap in support for men, particularly those in his age group, and aimed to create a space where men could connect and share their experiences. Townsend stated, "Through my own mental health journey... I wanted to tackle loneliness, and we feel like this group can do that." The group fosters an environment where men can engage in physical activities while encouraging open conversations about mental health.
The group has diversified its offerings, now including two darts teams and multiple football squads, with plans for a running club and netball team. Recently, yoga sessions were introduced to enhance accessibility for all ages. Participants like Will Tovey, 28, have found these activities beneficial for mental health, stating, "The yoga takes your mind off everything... It's so good for mental health."
Personal Experiences and Community Impact
Members of the Moreton Men Sports Group have shared how the initiative has positively impacted their lives. Jack Plumb, 38, emphasized the importance of the group in combating loneliness, while Lewis Shepherd, 26, noted that it has helped him gain confidence despite his speech impediment. He remarked, "The mental health side of things is why I joined... We have a good group of people that pick you up when you are down."
The group's youngest member, Alex, 17, who has a rare genetic disorder, expressed his enjoyment and sense of belonging within the group. His father, Damian, highlighted the supportive environment that has helped Alex improve his social skills and confidence.
Official Support and Future Directions
Cath Byford, NSFT's chief patient experience officer, affirmed the importance of community connections in mental health care. She stated, "Where a person does not require clinical intervention but would benefit from support within their community, NSFT will make an informal referral to the Moreton Men Sports Group." This collaboration aims to enhance the overall network of mental health and wellbeing services.
As the Moreton Men Sports Group continues to grow, it seeks to further integrate into the mental health support system, aiming to alleviate some of the pressures on NHS services while fostering a sense of community among men.
Verbatim Quotes
- "Through my own mental health journey... I wanted to tackle loneliness, and we feel like this group can do that." — Adam Townsend, Founder
- "It really does make me feel better every week." — Jack Plumb, Member
- "The mental health side of things is why I joined." — Lewis Shepherd, Member
- "I love it... Everyone is so friendly. We really feel like a family." — Alex, Member
- "These community-based connections are a vital part of delivering safer, kinder and better care." — Cath Byford, NSFT
