In November, Northbrook AC, a local running club welcoming runners of all abilities, held a 5k event to mark International Men’s Day and raise awareness of men’s mental health.

The event brought people together through running, conversation and shared purpose. For many men, taking part in physical activity alongside others can be an accessible way to support mental health, helping to reduce isolation and create routine. Running groups like Northbrook AC play an important role in building community, offering encouragement, structure and a space where people can connect without pressure.

Men are often less likely to talk about their mental health or seek support, which makes events like this especially valuable. By creating opportunities to come together around activity, mental health conversations can feel more natural and less daunting.

We were pleased to support the event by providing printed mental health resources, helping to ensure that information about support services was available on the day. Making resources visible and easy to access is an important step in encouraging people to seek help when they need it.

A big thank you to Northbrook AC for organising the event and helping to shine a light on men’s mental health. Community-led activities like this show how sport, connection and shared action can make a real difference.