At Portland Training, we are committed to not only providing high-quality education and training but also supporting the mental well-being of our learners and staff. Last week, our Stoke face-to-face delivery programme welcomed a very special guest from Andy’s Man Club, a charity dedicated to promoting men’s mental health and offering safe spaces to talk.
Lucas, a presenter from Andy’s Man Club, joined our learners on Friday, following a week of intensive training. By this stage, the group had spent several days together, making it the perfect time for an open and supportive discussion.
Lucas led an engaging and interactive session that allowed learners to explore mental health in a safe and supportive environment. He spoke openly about the importance of reaching out, sharing personal experiences and guidance on how to access local support networks. The session focused on normalising conversations around mental well-being and making it clear that it is okay to talk.
Feedback from the session was overwhelmingly positive. Lucas himself described it as one of his favourite presentations, praising the learners for their engagement and openness throughout the discussion. He highlighted how receptive the group was, noting their willingness to participate and ask questions.
Our tutors also observed the positive impact of the visit. Richard commented that learners particularly appreciated the opportunity to discuss their own mental well-being and were surprised to learn about local Andy’s Man Club groups, including one at their local football club. The session not only raised awareness of available support but also made reaching out feel more accessible and less intimidating. Nigel, another tutor, reflected that the session was both engaging and enjoyable. He noted that learners asked thoughtful questions and were grateful for the guidance provided on accessing local mental health services, even leaving written feedback in their workbooks to thank Lucas for such a positive experience.
At Portland Training, we recognise the value of integrating mental health awareness into our programmes. Partnering with Andy’s Man Club ensures that learners have access to trusted support and encourages open conversations about mental well-being. We are proud to work with organisations that share our commitment to creating a safe, supportive, and informed learning environment for all.
Through initiatives like this, we hope to continue breaking down the stigma surrounding mental health and empower our learners to take proactive steps towards looking after themselves and each other.
You can learn more about Andy’s Man Club and the amazing work they do here –
