What we are going to do:

On 26th May, Raff and I will tee off at Close House Golf Club in Newcastle at 4:45am and attempt to play 72 holes of golf in a single day, all in aid of 'MANUP?' and men's mental health. Playing in a better ball format, we will contribute money of our own for every par (£10), birdie (£20) and eagle (£50) we make on the day. On the slight off chance of a hole in one, we will donate £500...

Our total goal is £5,000, which we are hoping to reach through a raffle and help from your generosity.

Harry's story:

My name is Harry, and I'm a final year student at Newcastle University. Like a lot of people my age, university came with its own challenges, anxiety was my biggest one. At its worst it got to the point where I was missing seminars, avoiding social events, and at times drinking before going out to the pub just to give myself the courage to walk out the door. Then I'd get frustrated at myself for all of it, telling myself to just man up and get on with it. That cycle is a familiar one for a lot of men, and it's exhausting. In my first year I started therapy, and it genuinely changed things for me, talking about it, getting it off my chest, made me realise that what I was feeling wasn't weakness and that I didn't have to just push through alone (though it did take a while to get to this point of acceptance I admit). Since then, I've tried to be as open about it as I can and encourage others to do the same, because chances are whoever you're talking to is going through something similar. Golf has been a huge part of that journey too, there's something about being out on the course with your close mates that quietens everything down, and it's been one of the best things for my mental health alongside the therapy.

Raff's story:

My name is Raff and I am also a final year student at Newcastle University. I had secretly battled with anxiety for most of my life, and alongside this developed depression during my time at university. As it escalated, I was no longer in control of my mind and this in turn made sharing my experience with anyone more daunting. Asking for help, getting a medical diagnosis, as well as going to therapy have made the world of difference. I want to share my story so others feel more confident to open up and to break the stigma around mental health. Contrary to what I had believed my entire life, needing therapy and asking for help from others is not a weakness but a strength. Activities such as golf have been particularly important for my mental health – getting out in the fresh air and swinging a club with a few mates can take off all the pressures from studying and life generally. I would not wish what I have experienced on anyone and truly believe there is more fulfilment and meaning to life on the other side of talking and breaking stigmas. Although I was good at hiding how I was feeling, I will find it harder to hide some inevitable poor golf shots on the course! We are super grateful for any donations you can give and can’t wait for the big day.

Why MANUP?

MANUP? stood out to us immediately because of what it actually does, it doesn't just tell men to talk. It listens, acts and provides real support that works. As two young men who have both experienced the weight of keeping things bottled up, finding a charity that genuinely challenges how society handles men's mental health felt like the right fit for what we're trying to do. Raff and I were fortunate enough to be able to access private therapy, and it made a real difference to both of our lives, but we know that isn't an option for everyone. The statistics around men's mental health are sobering, men are far less likely to seek help and far more likely to suffer in silence, and that needs to change. This is our way of doing our bit, every pound raised goes directly towards a charity that funds free therapy, events and research that makes a real difference to people who need it most.