Council vehicles have been wrapped with Andy’s Man Club branding as part of an initiative to raise awareness of mental health support.
The three heavy goods vehicles which picks up household waste, will help promote the message that it is okay to talk about mental health and encourage both employees and residents to make use of the support available.
Depute Leader Louise Roarty said the initiative was particularly important given the experiences of colleagues across the team.
“The first vehicle has now been wrapped with the Andy’s Man Club branding to help promote the mental health awareness initiative across both the council’s operations team but also to male residents, to encourage them to speak more openly about their issues.
“Tragically the team has lost colleagues because of mental health challenges, making this a subject that is particularly close to the hearts of many."
Councillor Helen Loughran, Convener of Environment, added: “This excellent initiative is an important opportunity to raise awareness, encourage conversations and reinforce the support available to both our employees and the wider public.”
Andy’s Man Club provides free support groups across the UK, with sessions held every Monday at 7pm, except on bank holidays.
The groups provide men with a safe, non-judgemental and non-clinical environment where they can talk about the challenges affecting their lives. There is no pressure to speak, and men are welcome to attend simply to listen.
Thousands of men attend these sessions each week, supported by a large network of volunteers.
The aim is to provide a space where men feel comfortable opening up about their experiences and talking about difficult subjects without fear of judgement.
The Andy’s Man Club vehicle is part of wider work to promote health and wellbeing across the council workforce.
A number of open days focused on healthy lifestyles are also being planned for council staff to highlight the range of services and support available.
The events will also provide an opportunity to recognise and showcase the work being carried out by the Operations team, while reinforcing the importance of looking after physical and mental health.