Gym aims to offer mental health help

A GYM that defied coronavirus lockdown rules has launched a mental health service to help combat depression and suicide.

The Warehouse Gym, in Lunsford Road, Humberstone, was forced to close its doors after England’s second national lockdown was introduced on November 5.

It followed an ultimatum by Leicester City Council, supported by police, threatening it with a fine of up to £10,000 and a 90-day closure order if it did not comply with the rules.

Owner Lynton Dell had challenged regulations insisting gyms, leisure centres and sports clubs closed, claiming it was vital it be allowed to stay open to help support its members’ mental health – and even “prevent suicides”.

Gym member Jordon Flora, 27, a former soldier who had struggled with his mental health, was found dead in woods near his home in Loughborough on October 21.

Mr Dell believes his gym will be the first in the country to operate a specific service promoting its customers’ mental and emotional wellbeing.

It is designed to “help those people who need support right now”, without having to join a “16-month waiting list” to access NHS mental health services.

The Wellbeing Warehouse has its own website and will launch at the start of next month.

The website offers support for people suffering with stress and anxiety, depression – or just “feeling down” – and alcohol problems and drug addiction.

It will also help those having difficulties with body image and debt, and let them know where they can turn to for further support.

“Visitors will be able to access therapists and mental health support workers inside of five clicks,” said Mr Dell.

“It will be run on a donation basis so even people on low incomes can access resources and get help.

“Just saying we want to stay open for mental health reasons is not enough.

“Businesses actually doing something about it is the important part.”

It is not clear when gyms will be allowed to reopen. However, it is reported that a leaked blueprint indicates it could be about Easter.

BY OWNER WHO TRIED TO DEFY ORDER TO SHUT IN LOCKDOWN