TV Legend Timmy Mallett Champions Men's Mental Health with "Buddy Benches" Campaign
Beloved comedian and former Wacaday host Timmy Mallett is spearheading a new campaign, "Mission: Shoulder to Shoulder," aimed at encouraging men to open up and discuss their mental health. The initiative involves building and placing "buddy benches" across the UK to spark conversations.
The "Mission: Shoulder to Shoulder" Initiative
The project, a collaboration with DRINKiQ and the UK Men's Sheds Association (UKMSA), is based on research indicating that men find it easier to talk while engaged in an activity. The campaign will unfold in two phases: first, men will participate in workshops to build the benches, and then the benches will be placed in public parks to encourage conversations.
Research Highlights the Need for Connection
A social study by DRINKiQ and UKMSA, which monitored benches in public areas, found they facilitate an average of 5.5 chats per day. This equates to over 2,000 conversations annually, highlighting the potential of benches as a catalyst for social interaction. The research also highlighted that many men don't often share their problems outside a close circle because they either feel those around them don't care or they feel uncomfortable opening up.
Mallett's Hands-On Approach
Timmy Mallett joined "Shedders" at Black Park Shed in Buckinghamshire to help build one of the 100 benches planned nationwide. Mallett humorously admitted his creation was more of an obstacle than assistance, as it resembled a peculiar vehicle.
The Power of Shared Activities
Timmy Mallett emphasizes the importance of creating environments where men feel comfortable talking. "We need to get people talking," he said. "If you put two men in a room and ask them to have a deep and meaningful conversation, they might scarper. But if you put them at a work bench, shoulder to shoulder, you often get work-bench buddies. They might not fix much, or build much, but they'll get chatting, and those conversations can brighten a day – or even change a life."
Addressing Isolation and Alcohol Consumption
Studies reveal that a significant percentage of men (four in ten) rarely share their problems or start conversations. This isolation can contribute to unhealthy coping mechanisms. Elisabeth Rochford, a DRINKiQ ambassador, noted, "Older men consume more alcohol than any other cohort... But rather because of a vacuum created by life-stage and age-related factors such as retirement, empty-nesting, separation or bereavement." She highlights that programs such as Men's Sheds and initiatives such as Mission: Shoulder to Shoulder are ways to tackle those problems.
The Importance of Connection and Remembrance
Quoting the former BBC Radio Oxford presenter: "Its about getting conversations started - they don't have to be deep and meaningful, they just have to happen,". Mallett also referenced his late brother Martin, who had Down's Syndrome and never let it define him. Martin's simple phrase, "'You and me, I'm happy'", highlighted the power of being together and sharing moments, a sentiment Mallett hopes the benches will encourage.