A BRADFORD district community group is aiming to improve men’s well-being as the effects of the pandemic, the cost-of-living crisis and mental health issues continue to have an impact on people.
Keighley-based Eden Community Association (ECA) supports people from all backgrounds, but recent projects have been aimed at South Asian men aged 40 and over.
Fulzar Ahmed, of ECA, said that this demographic in particular struggle to open up about their mental health, due to a range of factors.
“They often feel like there’s a stigma attached, or that they’re not ‘man enough’ if they talk about their feelings,” he said.
“People also may feel depressed, anxious or isolated when they don’t belong to anything. There’s not really a hub for Bangladeshi people in Keighley, as such, so that’s one reason whey we’re seeing more problems.
“After Covid, a lot of been of people have also been out of work, and a lot of the activities which were going on before the pandemic have slowed down.
“It’s also hard for older men to get involved in initiatives, as there aren’t always things on for people their age. If they work long hours, that also makes it even harder.
“A lot of them feel to just trod along and bury their feelings inside.”
ECA wants to change this through a series of days out.
On Tuesday, it took a group on a fishing trip to Hartlepool, which Fulzar – who was on board – said was a resounding success.
“Everyone had a smile on their face,” he added.
“It was a team bonding exercise and everyone was included. We had a great laugh.
“For me personally, I get seasick so I was sceptical about going – but it was well worth it and it was a great experience.
“It was amazing – we even saw seals and dolphins.
“Afterwards, everyone felt really relaxed and peaceful. They got to explore somewhere new.”
Fulzar added that ECA now wants to open its doors to more people.
“This fishing trip was our pilot scheme, we now want to do a group for ladies too,” he said.
“The men went home and told their families – now the ladies are interested and want to experience it as well.
“So our next plan will be to take a female South Asian group fishing, with a similar mental health and well-being theme.
“Hopefully we’ll plan more trips from there, for other communities too.”
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