TWO Lancashire businesses have teamed up to give men the chance to talk about mental health while trying their hand at flower arranging.

Florists Bluebells and Daisies hosted the event at 19 Kitchen and Bar, Garstang High Street, in support of men’s mental health charity Andy’s Man Club.

Rob Dobson, from the Blackpool branch, said: “We’ve found that men are much more open to talking to men they don’t know, rather than close friends, because they don’t want that stigma.”

He said events that bring men together can have a “huge” positive impact on men’s sense of well-being.

“We’re not trained deputies, we’re not therapists. We’re just like-minded guys providing a safe space for other guys to come out and talk in open space,” Dobson said.

“Due to the recent economic downturn, pubs are closing down, but they used to be a central place for men to gather.

“That doesn’t happen anymore, but it’s great to see something like this happen.”

David Chambers, from Garstang, said he attended because he wanted to “talk to other people and maybe get something out of it.”

He said: “Personally, I’ve been through a lot over the last 18 months and sometimes it’s easier to talk to a stranger about your problems than it is to someone you know.

“Maybe it’s easier to empathize with someone because I don’t know their background.”

Gemma Kelsall, owner of flower shop Bluebells and Daisies, said she was “overwhelmed” to see about 20 men turn up.

“I really didn’t expect so many people to attend,” she said.

“We thought we might have to drag people off the street kicking and screaming, but they came.”

She said she hopes the men will start making flower arrangements at home for their families after the class.

Declan Stephen said: “It’s great to see so many new faces alongside some of our regulars.”

“This is what Garstang lacks,” he added. “It’s great to be able to collaborate with other companies and share a positive message.”

Stuart Leatherbarrow, from Garstang, said this was what he thought when he first heard about the florist class for men.

“I thought it might be a little uncomfortable to sit and talk to a bunch of people, but when I saw that it was interactive, I thought I’d give it a try.

“Mental health is important. Personally, I had a bit of a breakdown a few years ago and what helped me get out of it was getting out of the house and trying to switch off from what was going on.

“The best and most difficult thing for me was to go to my GP and ask for help.

“That changed everything and I’m in a great place now.

“I don’t regret it because it’s life, but it’s so important to ask for help.

“There’s a lot of pressure on men to talk and they need someone to be there to listen.”

Stuart joked about his floral creations, saying: “I feel like I’ve gone astray, but my bouquet is amazing!”

“I’m going to give it to my wife.”

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