A Letham community group allowing local men to get together for a blether has begun meeting again.
Bob’s Brew was established in Perth two years ago - just before lockdown - in February 2020.
The group was the brainchild of Robert Wilson who wanted to give something back.
Robert from Tulloch said: “I have suffered from mental health issues for half of my life. I’m in my 60s now. It’s my way of giving back.
“It’s more of a coffee morning. It’s a group of men just having a natter. It’s my way way of thanking Letham4all.”
Prior to the construction and refurbishment work at the Letham Centre the group met there. While the centre is being redeveloped the men currently meet in the neighbouring Letham Community Club on a Monday from 10am to 12pm.
Senior community learning assistant Sam Skelton developed the group with volunteer help from Emma Gerrard.
The aim is to have a social inclusion group for men breaking down barriers and stigmas bridging the gap between the community and wider community.
Sam said the hope for the group was to “allow users to be given the tools and skills to support themselves and further opportunities for future development/adult learning and understand the needs of the community without barriers”.
She added: “Running this project will ensure that males aged 16+ can access a safe building and communicate with other males in a non-judgemental environment and have access to agencies to offer support and guidance.
“Bob’s Brew can help support people and strengthen the community of Letham and surrounding areas, promote positive health and wellbeing.”
Perth North councillor John Rebbeck is keen to see groups such as Bob’s Brew get the support they need.
The local SNP councillor said: “As a Scottish man of a certain age, I understand how difficult it can be, sometimes, to speak about your mental health.
“Bob’s Brew is an ideal forum to get things off your chest, or just for a general blether. I also know Robert is a very modest man, so its important we don’t take his efforts for granted and support him, and other similar groups, wherever we can.”
