Guests at an Creative Support event in Horsforth were joined by a high-profile mental health campaigner to celebrate International Men’s Day on Wednesday 20th November.

Jonny Benjamin, author of ‘Pill After Pill’ and presenter of the recent BBC3 documentary ‘Failed by the NHS’, was the special guest at a fun and informative afternoon of activities held by social care provider Creative Support at their Courtyard Creativities venue on Town Street.

Jonny shared his own personal experiences of suffering and recovering from mental health issues as part of an inspirational group discussion. He also read a selection of his poetry to an audience of over thirty men who had travelled from across the region to attend the event.

The event was also attended by representatives of Leeds MIND and Leeds Men’s Health Network. Other attractions included a musical performance by singer-songwriter Robot Alien, a beginners’ tai chi workshop and a prize quiz.

Event organiser Ben Thomas said: “All too often, men put their mental and physical health at risk because they’re too afraid to seek medical help or confide in their friends and family. It’s vital that our service users are given the opportunity to seek advice in a safe and supportive environment. Many thanks to Jonny and all those who helped to make
today’s event such a fantastic success.”

International Men’s Day is an annual occasion, celebrated in over 60 countries worldwide, which aims to improve male health and wellbeing, promote gender equality, and highlight positive role models. The theme chosen for 2013 was ‘keeping men and boys safe’, with a focus on combating male suicide. For more information, visit
www.internationalmensday.com

PRESS ENQUIRIES
Benjamin Thomas

NOTES TO EDITORS
Creative Support is an Industrial and Provident Society with charitable status providing a range of person centred services for people with mental health needs, learning disabilities and other support needs.

Founded in 1990, the charity has gained an excellent reputation
for our dynamic approach, strong values and commitment to quality. Creative Support’s skilled and dedicated staff work together to deliver supported living and community support services in over 50 local authorities across Greater Manchester and the North West, the North East, the Midlands, London and the South East.

The charity’s aim is to promote social inclusion, to develop the independence and confidence of their service users and to promote their physical, mental and emotional wellbeing. They work in  partnership with service users, their families and carers and other
agencies to provide services that meet their individual needs and preferences and enable each service user to enjoy life and reach their full potential. As a not for profit organisation Creative Support is committed to using its resources to create opportunities and improve
the lives of the people they support.
For further details please see the website: www.creativesupport.co.uk