Buchanan Galleries partners with charities to launch initiative in support of improving men’s health | Glasgow Chamber of Commerce
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Buchanan Galleries partners with charities to launch initiative in support of improving men’s health

City centre shopping mall, Buchanan Galleries, has partnered with five health charities and services for a weeklong initiative aimed at supporting men in Glasgow to improve their health and mental wellbeing.

Coinciding with Men’s Health Week (9–15 June) — an annual awareness campaign that highlights the health challenges men face and promotes strategies for better physical and mental wellbeing — Buchanan Galleries will welcome local men’s charities, organisations, and health services from across Glasgow and beyond.

Throughout the week, the centre will provide space between 10am and 4pm for each organisation to engage with the community, raise awareness of their work, and encourage men across the city to take positive steps toward improving their overall health.

Situated beneath the flower wall outside John Lewis & Partners, the five charities and organisations will each take a day to connect with visitors and highlight the services they offer.

Monday 9th: MindTheMen is Glasgow's oldest peer to peer support group for suicide prevention and men’s mental health. The service provides free face-to-face support groups and digital sessions, run by specially trained facilitators in mental health first aid and ASIST. The charity also hosts a range of social events such as fishing, cinema and theatre trips, and walks.

Tuesday 10th: MENSELF+ run a MOT 4 MEN programme designed to empower men to improve their health. The MOT 4 MEN involves a series of stations, each involving a quick and simple health check. The process is non-medical and designed to help men overcome any apprehension they may have about going to see a GP. 

Wednesday 11th: Men Matter Scotland works to promote wellbeing and prevent suicide in men in Scotland with a programme of activities and classes hosted in the charity’s dedicated community centre The HUB in Drumchapel.

Thursday 12th: Terrence Higgins Trust is at the forefront of the fight against HIV and improving the country’s sexual health. The charity will be available to provide advice and support, as well as information on the services they offer.  

Saturday 15th: Prostate Scotland’s mission is to inform, educate, support, campaign, and advance on prostrate disease in Scotland. The charity provides men information, advice, tests and treatment on prostrate health.

Kathy Murdoch, Centre Director at Buchanan Galleries, said, “It’s important to us to serve our community, not only as a shopping centre, but as a community hub in the centre of Glasgow. We aim to create an accessible, supportive space for men, who may not typically seek health advice or services, and bring these opportunities directly to them in a familiar, everyday setting.

“We know that taking that first step can often be the hardest, so by offering visibility and access to these brilliant charities and organisations in a relaxed environment, we hope to make it easier for men to start important conversations about their health and wellbeing. It’s a small but meaningful way we can help reduce stigma and encourage more positive, proactive approaches to men’s health in our community.”

Martin Melly, Operations Manager at Men Matter Scotland, said “Men Matter Scotland is looking forward to coming to Buchanan Galleries and taking part in this initiative. 

“We aim to improve men's mental health and wellbeing through peer-to-peer support so getting the opportunity to raise awareness amongst the local population in Glasgow of our service is vital. Thanks Buchanan Galleries for the opportunity.”

Jim Malcomson, Programme Coordinator at MENSELF+ said, “We’re thrilled to be bringing our MOT 4 MEN programme to guests at Buchanan Galleries. The services is a unique health initiative that encourages men to think about their wellbeing like they would their car — through regular check-ups and maintenance.

“By creating a relaxed, non-medical environment with a bit of humour, the programme breaks down barriers and helps men take positive, proactive steps toward better physical and mental health.”

Alison Wright, CEO of Prostate Scotland, said: “We’re proud to be taking part in this week of action to help shine a light on men’s health. Too often, men put off speaking up about health concerns — especially when it comes to prostate issues. By bringing our information and support directly into a busy public space like Buchanan Galleries, we hope to make it that bit easier for men to get informed, ask questions, and feel more confident about taking charge of their health.”

For more information, please visit https://buchanangalleries.co.uk/

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