Coventry and Warwickshire Partnership NHS Trust teams up with Apollo Gym to support mental and physical wellbeing during Men's Health Awareness Month
Coventry and Warwickshire Talking Therapies, part of Coventry and Warwickshire Partnership NHS Trust (CWPT), is partnering with Apollo Gym in Coventry to encourage conversations about mental health and the benefits of physical activity during Men's Health Awareness Month.
The free community wellbeing event will take place on Monday 16 November from 6pm to 9pm at Apollo Gym, offering members of the public free access to gym equipment, fitness facilities and the sauna. Attendees simply need to tell staff they are there for the Talking Therapies promotion.
The evening will also include a free introductory workout class from 6.30pm to 7.30pm, giving people the opportunity to try physical activities in a welcoming and supportive environment. There are only spaces for 20 participants. Places can be booked online.
Representatives from Coventry and Warwickshire Talking Therapies will be available during the evening to share information about the free NHS service, answer questions and raise awareness of the support available for people experiencing low mood, anxiety and depression. The service supports people aged 16 and over across Coventry and Warwickshire with a range of mental wellbeing needs.
The partnership will also be highlighted on the D1 Podcast on Tuesday 19 November, when NHS Talking Therapies' Senior Psychological Wellbeing Practitioner, Marquez Sinclair, joins host and Apollo Gym owner Amar Singh Takhar for a discussion on close connection between physical and mental wellbeing, Men's Health Awareness Month, and the importance of encouraging people to seek support when they need it. The podcast regularly shines a spotlight on inspiring stories, wellbeing and issues affecting local communities.
Amar Singh Takhar, Owner of Apollo Gym and host of D1 Podcast, said:
We've always said it's not just about making a change; it's about making a difference. It's about showing people they have options. Whether that's improving their physical and mental wellbeing or simply starting a conversation, we're here to support and serve our community.
Sheri Ashton, Head of Service for Coventry, Warwickshire and Solihull NHS Talking Therapies for anxiety and depression, said:
We know that men are often less likely to seek support for their mental health, despite facing significant challenges. By partnering with Apollo Gym, we're taking our message into a community setting where people already come to invest in their wellbeing. We hope this event encourages open conversations about mental health and helps people understand that support is available, whether they're looking to improve their wellbeing, manage difficult emotions, or take the first step towards recovery.
Jacky Vincent, Chief Nursing Officer at Coventry and Warwickshire Partnership NHS Trust, said:
Physical and mental health are closely connected, and this partnership demonstrates the value of working alongside local organisations to improve wellbeing within our communities. By bringing together the expertise of Talking Therapies and the community reach of Apollo Gym, we hope to encourage more people to prioritise their overall wellbeing by starting important conversations and seeking support when they need it.
Research consistently shows that regular physical activity can have a positive impact on mental wellbeing. Through this partnership, Apollo Gym and Coventry and Warwickshire Talking Therapies hope to encourage more people, particularly men, to think about both their mental and physical health and to know where support is available.
The event is free and open to everyone, regardless of gender, fitness level or previous gym experience. It will take place at Apollo Gym, Unit 32, Arches Industrial Estate, Spon End, Coventry, CV1 3JQ. For any questions, please contact Charysse Harper, Communications and Engagement Lead for Coventry and Warwickshire NHS Talking Therapies at charysse.harper@covwarkpt.nhs.uk or 079 1751 3310.