MEN are opening up about their mental health as part of a new campaign in Swindon.

The Doorstep Diaries, which was launched today by Men’s Mental Health Swindon, features five different men all aged between 25 and 50.

Pictures of the participants along with questions focusing on how they’ve been feeling over the past few months will be posted on Facebook throughout the week.

Co-founder of Men’s Mental Health Alex Pollock said: “We felt this was a great opportunity to connect our online community with real people from the local community showcasing examples of what it’s like for everyone right now.

“Our hope is that there will be members of the local community who can directly relate with some of the Doorstep Diaries, and this in itself can often be a relief.

“It’s great to hear how other people are coping with what’s going on at the moment, and there might be techniques or activities referenced that someone else can give a try for maintaining their own mental wellbeing.”

The group will share stories from people of different backgrounds, including a local photographer, a telecoms engineer, a football coach and a furloughed salesperson.

Alex added: “Daily posts will go live on our page from 8am this morning. We’ll feature guys that are working from home, some who have been furloughed, and others who have continued as key workers.

“The profiles feature men who have been supportive of our organisation since we launched in May last year.

“We’re often approached by supporters of ours who wish to share their experiences or see if there’s something further they can do to get behind our mission.”

Set up by Alex and Charlie Paradise, Men’s Mental Health Swindon launched several campaigns and initiatives since 2019 to support those struggling with mental illness.

It has organised online events and activities including DJs live performing on Facebook, to keep people entertained during the lockdown.

“We wanted to run a campaign that was aligned to Men’s Health Week but was mindful of the situation around Covid-19.

“Our organisation still very much supports the Stay at Home message, and profiling guys on their doorsteps was the most effective way of us achieving this during the pandemic,” Alex said.

“There are a range of support networks and services out there that are free-to-access for the Swindon community.

“I hope if anyone feels they need that right now, they find ways of getting in touch.”

For further details about the campaign visit facebook.com/mmhSwindon

For emotional support, anyone can call the Samaritans 24-hour helpline on 116123.