A new men's health initiative aimed at supporting the health and wellbeing of hospital staff has launched at the Royal Stoke.

The University of North Midlands NHS Trust (UHNM) launched the session to encourage men to open up about a range of topics from self-care to mental health.

The first "Chill and Spill" session was attended by over 40 staff members and the trust says it marks a "major milestone" in the ongoing development of the UHNM Men's Health Group, which first launched in June 2023.

The group was set up by James Harvey, organisational development (OD) trainer at UHNM, who was inspired to champion men's health following the tragic loss of his brother, Nick, on New Year's Eve in 2019.

James said: "Nick's deterioration in mental health led to poor physical health.

"He was a lovely man, and I'm proud to celebrate his life by helping other men speak out before it's too late. I definitely feel his memory is helping me to drive forward and progress the group.

James Harvey, organisational development (OD) trainer at UHNM. (UHNM)

"Our UHNM staff networks, including the Women's Network, were doing fantastic work but it became apparent that as an organisation we weren't championing men's health enough, and we could be doing more to support the health and wellbeing of our male colleagues. 

"Men's health was something that was always bubbling away in me, so it was put to me by OD management to create a group with their support for the benefit of the men of UHNM. 

"The reaction from the men in the room was overwhelming. The open format allowed everyone to contribute at their own pace, and we covered a wide range of topics, from suicide prevention to burnout and the emotional challenges of fatherhood.

"One colleague told us afterwards how a topic we discussed brought up deep emotions he'd never shared before."

Marc Porter, estates manager who attended the session with members of his team.

He said: "The Chill and Spill session had a positive impact not only on my team but me personally.

"The response from my colleagues was overwhelmingly positive, with many thanking me afterwards and looking forward to the next one. For me, it highlighted how much I've kept to myself over the years instead of speaking openly, something many men struggle with."

James is already planning further "Chill and Spill' sessions across other departments at Royal Stoke and County Hospital, Stafford, with interest in the sessions growing not just within UHNM but from neighbouring NHS Trusts.

James said: "This is about creating a culture where men feel seen and supported.

"It's about all of us looking out for one another, making time for self-care, and promoting real connection. I want this to be the best men's health group in the NHS. We're just getting started, but we're already making a difference."