LONDON – At just 23, Andrew Roberts lost his life to suicide, leaving behind a devastated family who had no idea how deeply he was struggling.

His death became the catalyst for a movement that has grown into more than 360 community groups across the United Kingdom, giving thousands of men a place to speak openly, be heard and find support when they need it most.

His mother, Elaine Roberts (71), and brother-in-law, Luke Ambler (36), established Andy’s Man Club to create a safe, judgement-free space where men could talk about their problems over a cup of tea.

What began as a single meeting with just nine men in Halifax, England, has grown over the past ten years into more than 360 community groups across England, Scotland and Wales.

Every Monday night, about 7 000 men gather for free, confidential peer support. No registration or referral is required. The sessions are entirely volunteer-led, with many group leaders having first turned to the club themselves for support.

Elaine says she believes her son might still be alive if he had felt able to talk about his struggles.

“I lost my son to suicide and Luke came to me three months later and suggested a coffee club where guys could go to talk,” she said.

“We’re trying to break down the stigma and we’ve only just scratched the surface. It’s about helping as many men as possible, one person at a time.”

Luke, a former professional rugby player, also launched the #ItsOkayToTalk campaign, which reached more than 100 million people worldwide.

The pair’s efforts have now earned them a Pride of Britain Award. Former footballer Peter Crouch was overcome with emotion when the news of their award was announced.

“I get emotional when people have achieved something amazing, and I don’t think they’ve realised quite how many people they’ve touched,” he said.

Elaine and Luke received their award at the Mirror’s annual Pride of Britain ceremony at Grosvenor House in London on Monday 19 October.

Luke says the goal has always been to prevent other families from experiencing the same loss.

“When someone says they’re still here because of it, you know why you’ve kept going,” he says.

Oliver Vikse, one of the first nine men to attend the club, says he experienced homelessness and lost three friends to suicide during a difficult period in his life.

“It was so refreshing to sit and be heard.”

The club’s message remains simple: men do not have to face their struggles alone, and speaking openly can make a difference.

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