Reflecting on one year of Andy's Man Club sessions at the Etihad Stadium | OneFootball

This week not only marks Mental Health Awareness Week, but the one-year anniversary of Andy’s Man Club at the Etihad Stadium, taking place in the East Stand each Monday from 19:00 to 21:00.

Since the first session 12 months ago, Manchester City and the Halifax-based suicide prevention charity have continued to work together to offer weekly free peer-to-peer support for males in the surrounding community aged 18 or over.

During this time there has been over 950 individual sessions attended at the Stadium; with over 90% of individuals who have attended never having been to a session before.

Danny Wilson, Managing Director - Manchester City Operations, sat down with members of Andy’s Man Club, Paul, Jack, Anthony and Carl to discuss their experiences of Andy’s Man Club at the Etihad Stadium across the last 12 months.

WATCH: Andy's Man Club at the Etihad | One year anniversary

Reflecting on the collaboration between Manchester City and Andy’s Man Club, Wilson said: "Mental health is a critical issue that affects millions, yet it often remains in the shadows due to stigma and misunderstanding.

"We’ve got a responsibility as a football club to utilise our platform and reach to promote the importance of well-being beyond the pitch while leaning on the experience and skills of Andy’s Man Club.

"By working together, Manchester City and Andy’s Man Club have been able to facilitate support for over 130 local people who otherwise may not have had it.

"It’s an open door, we don’t turn anyone away and it’s not just about City fans, the sessions support the wider community and anyone that is seeking help."

Each session is facilitated by trained volunteers and supported by Club staff, ensuring a safe and respectful space for all participants. Since the first session, six attendees have finished their training and become Facilitators, with others set to complete their training this month.

Talking about his experience over the past 12 months, Andy’s Man Club Facilitator Paul McCormack said: "By holding Andy's Man Club at The Etihad Stadium we've been able to attract men-in-need from the community and beyond.

"We've not just created a band of brothers, we've facilitated nearly 100 hours of men talking, opening up and sharing their worries to an audience of empathy, compassion and understanding.

"Andy's Man Club at the Etihad Stadium has become more than just a club over these past twelve months - it's become a lynch pin, a way of life and a means to a better tomorrow for those who attend.

"Here's to the next twelve months and beyond..."

If you or someone you know is interested in attending an Andy’s Man Club session at the Etihad more information can be found here.

For more information about Andy’s Man Club, please visit: https://andysmanclub.co.uk/