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THE ‘Men2Mentor’ project, funded by Age Concern and Help The Aged (‘Fit as a Fiddle Project’) through The Big Lottery Fund, has been bringing great health and wellbeing benefits to hundreds of over 50s men throughout the borough.

The diverse range of activities provided include: Aqua Circuits, Badminton, Slimmin’ wi’ no women™, a Creative Men’s Writing Group, Golf lessons at Sherdley Driving Range, 5 a side football, IT Men and Health, Advanced Driving, Just Men (Parr) social group, Archery and Sailing. There are also plans for further groups in the coming weeks.

The Men2Mentor project in St Helens began in May 2008 and is run by Age Concern Mid Mersey funded by Age Concern and Help The Aged ‘Fit as a Fiddle’ programme and is aimed at improving the health and wellbeing of men in the borough, many of whom may not have participated in activities previously.

Nigel James (Men's Health and Well Being Coordinator at Age Concern Mid Mersey) stated: “The success of the project has exceeded our expectations with feedback from participants being positive and at times truly heart-warming as activities are offering a life-line to some.”

Since its arrival in St Helens, the Men2Mentor project has benefitted around 500 men, with their achievements ranging from success in the Advanced Drivers Certificate and the Royal Yachting Association Level 2 Basic Skills certificate, to the formation of a ‘Fit as a Fiddle’ golf group, the publication of a fantastic anthology of poetry and a mouth watering recipe book from the Slimmin’ wi’ no women™ group.

Mr Don Whittaker, a member of the Creative Writing Group, commented: “Participation in the group and the bonding with my colleagues has, indeed, been instrumental in learning to enjoy life again.”

Following completion by participants of a “lifestyle” questionnaire back in August 2009, a prize draw took place on Friday, 11 December (1.30pm) at Ruskin Leisure Limited. Several first team players from St. Helens RLFC took time out of training to meet participants and picked out the winning questionnaire from the draw. The winner John Mather will receive a portrait sitting, framed photograph and a free Christmas Dinner for two at the Bistro, Mansion House.

Pictured in the photograph are Don Whittaker (Centre), Len Saunders (Left with bobble hat) and Brian Singleton (right). Nigel James (Men's Health And Well Being Coordinator) is in the black leather jacket (Centre front) with Age Concern Mid Mersey's Chief Executive, Phil Longworth holding the Rugby Ball aloft. St. Helens RLFC squad members are Gareth Frodsham, shown drawing the winning ticket, accompanied by Matty Ashurst and Gary Wheeler.

Community

Saints Support ‘Men2Mentor’