'Making a Difference': Men’s suicide awareness event sparks powerful conversations in Telford

Dressed in green—the colour symbolising men's mental health—and with their faces covered, the participants stood together holding a powerful message: "Suicide and poor mental health are more common than we admit. Seventy-five per cent of people who die by suicide are men. Suicide is the leading cause of death for men under 50 in England and Wales. If you need it, give me a hug or stop for a chat." 

This impactful demonstration was a joint effort by True North Bikers and The Breath of Life Foundation, two organisations dedicated to breaking the stigma surrounding men’s mental health and advocating for greater awareness and support.

"It was a powerful experience for all involved and deeply moving to see people from all walks of life taking the time to acknowledge and interact with us," said Dan Wharton, representative of True North Bikers. "We're immensely pleased to have provided the opportunity to bring this message to the forefront."

Chris Booth from The Breath of Life Foundation added, "We really want to make a difference. That’s why we highlighted the two most important facts: that 75 per cent of deaths by suicide are men, and suicide remains the leading cause of death for men under 50. These figures are alarming and must be addressed."

The event sought to illuminate the silent crisis of male suicide and encourage open conversations about mental health. By covering their faces, participants symbolised the hidden struggles that many men face, while the green attire served as a visible sign of solidarity and advocacy for men’s mental health.

Shoppers and passers-by stopped to absorb the message, many offering words of support, sharing hugs, or engaging in heartfelt conversations. The event created a powerful moment of reflection, sparking discussions that many hope will continue beyond the day’s gathering. Numerous attendees shared their personal experiences, revealing how deeply suicide has impacted their lives. Many spoke of friends, family members, or colleagues lost to suicide, underscoring the widespread nature of the issue. The event also prompted individuals to share their struggles, highlighting the need for accessible mental health support and more open discussions. Some attendees expressed gratitude, stating that simply seeing such an event taking place made them feel less alone in their own battles.

True North Bikers is a passionate community of motorcycle enthusiasts dedicated to supporting various community causes, with a strong focus on mental health awareness and support. Through organised rides, charity events, and advocacy efforts, they strive to foster camaraderie and create safe, judgment-free spaces where men can openly share their struggles and seek support.

The Breath of Life Foundation is a non-profit organisation devoted to supporting men through their mental health journeys. By providing safe spaces, resources, and advocacy, the foundation works tirelessly to break the stigma surrounding mental health and encourage men to seek help when they need it.

Building on the success of ‘Making a Difference’, both organisations plan to continue their collaborative efforts, launching more initiatives aimed at education, support, and community engagement. They invite others to join their mission to create lasting change in men’s mental health awareness.

For more information or to get involved, please contact Dan Wharton, True North Bikers – 07870 400814, email dlwharton87@gmail.com, or Chris Booth, The Breath of Life – 07549 679776, email help@the-breath-of-life-foundation.co.uk.