On Blue Monday we are not only unveiling our new name as Athletic Minds Foundation, but also announcing plans to launch a brand new centre in the heart of Manchester.
Opening a new hub in Manchester is a monumental moment, but it is only the beginning of a network of new centres that we will open across the UK in 2024 and beyond.
Our Manchester hub will follow the same community-led winning formula that has underpinned the success of our Sowerby Bridge (Halifax) centre.
Why Manchester?
The decision to choose Manchester as one of our new hubs was not down to chance. As a major urban centre, Manchester faces massive mental health challenges through social and financial deprivation causing loneliness and helplessness. There is also a massive shortfall in mental health service funding for Manchester.
Manchester’s need is significant and once it became clear we had an opportunity to take premises in the city centre it was a simple decision.The new hub will provide an easy to reach safe haven for the large numbers of individuals battling mental health issues.
The vital support to be offered from the Manchester centre includes our unique 8-week mental wellness course, physical fitness activities, holistic workshops, suicide prevention and intervention classes, training on coping with loss and grief, free counselling and a range of community-driven activities.
Manuel Benages, who founded the charity without any funding or savings 6 years ago, commented “I can’t express how much I’m looking forward to seeing the Manchester hub come to life. This is not just a physical space – it’s a manifestation of our collective efforts to bring positive change to those who need it most.”
“In the heart of Manchester, we’re planting a seed of hope and assistance. The hub will be a testament to our dedication to help the diverse and vibrant community of Manchester thrive mentally and emotionally.”
James Eastwood, a charity Trustee, added “Being located in central Manchester also provides an opportunity to partner more closely with local businesses in the city. Our vision is to be working closely together with employers right across the city, and to take our unique mental health support into the workplace. This will enable us to help more people and support Manchester’s industry at the same time.”
We plan to open our Manchester hub in the first half of 2024.
Want to help?
If you are a business interested in helping us, or have charitable donations at your disposal, please get in touch at info@athleticminds.co.uk.
As an individual feel free to make a donation via the website. Every penny we receive goes directly towards supporting individuals in need and opening new centres such as Manchester.
Check out our testimonials page to see the impact your support will have.