A Carlisle charity has introduced a unique initiative using beer mats to guide local men to its mental health services.
Offload, founded by Liam Edmondson in 2019, emerged from his struggle to find a space for men to openly discuss mental health issues in Carlisle. Today, five years later, the charity holds meetings three times a week in Carlisle and Penrith, offering casual meet-ups and activity evenings.
Despite progress, a stigma around discussing mental health persists, and many men hesitate to share their feelings with friends. To address this, Offload has launched a new campaign distributing beer mats to local pubs and restaurants. These mats feature a QR code directing users to the charity’s website.
Founder Liam Edmondson shared, “It seems to have hit off on social media; people are really relating to it. We’ve got a lot of pubs interested, and I’ve already had to order more.”
Offload aims to engage more local pubs and restaurants in the initiative, seeking a small donation in return. Although Liam acknowledges improvements in mental health services in Cumbria, he emphasizes the ongoing need for action.
“I think men’s mental health in the area has really taken off,” he said. “When we started in 2019, I think we were the only group, but now there are many more. It’s great because if one group doesn’t fit, you can try another.”
Liam stressed the importance of continued efforts, noting the presence of toxic masculinity that can prevent men from speaking out. “There is definitely still a toxic masculinity element where one friend in a group might not be confident enough to speak out. That is why we offer this, should that situation occur. The attitude has really changed, but there is always work to be done.”
Offload will provide free sample beer mats and encourages local businesses to support the charity by getting in touch.
