Men's Mental Health Group
Wild Embers is launching a new Men’s Mental Health Group in Devon, starting 27th January, held at Blackberry Barn, Ritson. This 10-week programme offers men a safe, non-clinical space to talk, connect, and feel supported, without pressure, judgement, or expectation.
Thanks to grant funding from the We Are Devon Community Fund – DCC Suicide Prevention Innovation Fund and the Sovereign Housing Community Fund, the group is donation only, helping to remove financial barriers to accessing mental health support.
What is the Men's Mental Health Group?
This group is designed for men who may be experiencing stress, isolation, emotional overwhelm, or who simply want space to pause and reconnect with themselves and others.
Sessions are nature-based, trauma-informed, and grounded in peer support rather than clinical intervention. Men are supported to show up as they are and take part at their own pace.
What each sessions includes:
Each weekly session lasts 2 hours and includes:
-
A grounding activity in nature
-
Informal social time with shared food and hot drinks
-
A facilitated circle exploring themes such as anger, identity, trust, grief, and communication
-
Focused discussion on fatherhood, including supporting children with high needs such as SEND or mental health challenges
-
Peer sharing using active listening frameworks that promote connection and reduce shame
-
Signposting to additional support services where appropriate
-
The consistent structure allows trust, confidence, and meaningful relationships to build over time
Who facilitates the group?
Richard Scofield – Wild Embers Founder & Session Facilitator
Richard is a founding director of Wild Embers and has over 15 years’ experience in men’s work. He is an active participant in men’s peer support groups and brings a deep personal commitment to circle work and non-clinical approaches to mental health. His facilitation style is compassionate, grounded, and inclusive.
Derek O'Toole – Co-Facilitator & Advisor
Derek recently retired from his role as Head of Mental Health and Social Care Commissioning for Devon, where he oversaw mental health services for both children and adults across the county.
His career spans statutory, voluntary, and independent sectors, including NHS consultancy, prison mental health leadership, and suicide prevention work. Derek is also a director of Resilient Lives and part of the core team at Wild Embers.
Who is the group for?
This group may be suitable for men who:
-
Are feeling isolated, stressed, or emotionally overwhelmed
-
Want to talk in a non-clinical, peer-based setting
-
Are fathers or carers, including those supporting children with additional needs
-
Value being outdoors and connecting in nature
-
Are looking for consistent, relationship-based support
You do not need a diagnosis or referral to attend.
Testimonials
Our Partners
