A Journey of Empowerment and Healing at the Acre-Reading Well-being Hub

 

Introduction:

On June 7th, a significant and groundbreaking event at the Acre-Reading Well-being Hub. The Men’s Mental Health Conference aimed to raise awareness and encourage conversation about men’s Mental Health. It brought together people from the black community and beyond.  Focusing on breaking the silence and promoting healing, this conference marked a significant step towards addressing the often-ignored issue of men’s mental well-being.

 

Creating a Safe Space:

The conference organisers, the Utulivu Women’s Group, the Alliance for Cohesion and Racial Equality (ACRE), Mojatu Media, the Community Wellbeing Hub-Reading, and NHS-Berkshire Healthcare recognised the importance of creating a safe and inclusive environment for men to share their experiences and seek support. The ACRE-Reading Well-being Hub, is known for its commitment to mental health advocacy. Bringing together other community members through various social activities such as the weekly Coffee and Tea Morning – an activity that attracts people from different walks of life, provided the perfect backdrop for this much-needed conversation. The spacious and welcoming atmosphere of the Hub set the stage for attendees to engage in open and honest discussions about their mental health journeys.

Keynote Speakers and Workshops:

Esteemed health professionals and influential voices in the field of community building took the stage to deliver powerful keynote speeches, shedding light on the unique challenges men face in accessing mental health care and discussing the issue. These speakers shared their expertise and personal stories of resilience and recovery, inspiring the audience to embrace their healing journeys. In addition to the keynote speeches, the conference featured Mr Victor Koroma, the director of ACRE-Reading, and other stakeholders from the NHS Talking Therapies, who supported the conference. Attendees were allowed to participate in mindfulness question-and-answer sessions.

 

Community Engagement and Support:

The Men’s Mental Health Conference was remarkable for the strong sense of community engagement and support it fostered. Individuals from diverse backgrounds came together with a shared commitment to breaking the stigma surrounding men’s mental health. Attendees were encouraged to connect, to foster a support network that extends beyond the conference.

Outcomes and Future Initiatives:

The Men’s Mental Health Conference at the Acre-Reading Well-being Hub is a catalyst for change. By raising awareness and promoting dialogue, the conference provided a platform for individuals to share their experiences, seek support, and break free from the constraints of societal expectations. The event not only addressed the unique challenges faced by men but also highlighted the importance of mental health in the black community.

Moving forward, the conference organisers have expressed their commitment to sustain the momentum generated by the event. They plan to collaborate with local organisations and professionals to create ongoing mental health initiatives specifically tailored to the needs of men within the black community and beyond. By nurturing this dialogue, the Acre-Reading Well-being Hub aims to create a lasting impact on men’s mental health, ensuring that no voice goes unheard and no journey goes unsupported.

Conclusion:

The Men’s Mental Health Conference at the Acre-Reading Well-being Hub was a resounding success. Providing a safe space for men to share their stories and seek support, the conference shattered the stigma surrounding men’s mental health. The event served as a potent reminder that mental health knows no boundaries and that healing is possible when we come together as a community. Through continued efforts and initiatives, we can create a world where men’s mental health is a priority, understood, and supported. The conference ended with an interactive lunch section.