Salford Red Devils Foundation back new men’s mental health project in Salford

A pioneering new project aimed at tackling male suicide and supporting men’s mental health has launched in Salford.

The Salford Manbassadors scheme was officially launched on October 10, to coincide with World Mental Health Day.

Salix Homes is leading the roll-out of Salford Manbassadors – a grassroots initiative designed to create a network of trained volunteers, known as ‘Manbassadors’, across the city. These volunteers are local organisations who provide a safe space for men to talk, listen, and signpost to help when needed. The aim is to break down the stigma around mental health and encourage men to reach out before it’s too late.

The first official Manbassador in Salford has been announced as Salford Red Devils Foundation, who will be offering a 16-week health and wellbeing programme for local men, focusing on positive mental wellbeing, physical fitness and healthy eating. Participants will also have the opportunity to meet players from the club who are backing the Manbassadors scheme.

Paul Trainor, Director of Foundation and Rugby Partnerships at Salford Red Devils Foundation, said: “As a club rooted in the heart of Salford, we’re proud to be the city’s first official Manbassador. The wellbeing of our community is at the centre of everything we do, and we know sport can be a powerful way to bring people together and break down stigma around mental health.

“Our new 16-week programme will give men the chance to improve their health and wellbeing, but most importantly, it will provide them with a safe and supportive space where they know they’re not alone.”

Nathan Connell, Salford Red Devils Super League player, said: “It is great that Salford Red Devils Foundation is leading the way as the city’s first Manbassador. Providing men with the opportunity to get together to focus on their physical and mental wellbeing is so important. We need to get the message out that it is okay to ask for help.”

Salix Homes is now calling on more local businesses, community groups and organisations to get involved and pledge their support as Manbassadors.

Kate Burns, Salix Homes Housing Manager and Salford Manbassadors Project Lead, said: “Too many men in our communities are suffering in silence, and the Manbassadors scheme is about breaking down barriers, starting conversations, and letting men know that it’s okay to ask for help.

“We’re proud to be bringing this important initiative to Salford, and we want to build a strong network of local businesses and organisations who will stand with us as Manbassadors. This could be anywhere men naturally gather – from barber shops, cafes and pubs, to sports clubs, gyms, community centres or workplaces.

“By creating safe spaces in these everyday places, we can reach more men, offer support, and give them the confidence to speak out when they’re struggling. Together, we can make a real difference and support men to live happier, healthier lives.”

The launch comes as sobering figures highlight the scale of the crisis – in Salford alone 44 people took their own lives in 2023, and suicide remains the single biggest killer of men under 50.

Find out more

For more information about the Salford Manbassadors scheme, including how to get involved as a Manbassador or to access support, including registering your interest in the Salford Red Devils Foundation programme, visit www.salixhomes.co.uk/manbassadors