International Men’s Day takes place in November – and Cumbria Chamber of Commerce is holding an event to mark it.
The event, at Carlisle Rugby Club on November 19, is on the theme of supporting men at work, with conversations around mental health, health and wellbeing, overcoming adversity and positive male role models.
The aim of the event is to raise awareness of some of the issues affecting men and to highlight best practice and ways employers can support men to bring their best selves to work.
In the UK, International Men’s Day is overseen by the Men and Boys Coalition charity, with activities centred on improving the wellbeing of men and boys, raising awareness / funds for charity, and promoting a positive conversation about men, manhood and masculinity.
The event will also highlight relevant support services including Andy’s Man Club, with a talk from Carlisle facilitator, Gary Martin on how the group has supported men locally since its launch in January.
The keynote speaker for the event is author, public speaker and outdoor cook, Harrison Ward, otherwise known as Fell Foodie.
Harrison’s talk will touch on the importance of spending time outdoors for physical and mental wellbeing and address his personal battle with depression, suicidal thoughts and journey from an overweight, alcoholic, smoker to the fit, fell-loving foodie he is today.
Craig Hamilton of Hamilton Training Services, will talk about best practices for promoting positive mental and physical wellbeing in the workplace.
Cumbria Chamber’s International Men’s Day will take place between 10am and 1opm. Refreshments including tea, coffee and breakfast rolls will be provided. The event is free to attend for chamber members and £15 plus VAT for non-members. Women are welcome to attend this event.
Tickets can be reserved from the Chamber’s website.
Joe Sanders, marketing manager at Cumbria Chamber of Commerce, said: “We’re excited to be hosting our first International Men’s Day event this year in Carlisle, with such an interesting line-up of speakers.
“Businesses are recognising the key role they play in supporting their employees to bring their best selves to work, and the positive impact this can have on the success of their organisation and on the wellbeing of society as a whole.
“With this event, we aim to spark conversations about how businesses can best support their male colleagues and foster a supportive environment at work.”
Sponsors Leo Group and Fell Foodie have helped make this event possible.
