Mental health champ is called up to royal team
AMAN who set up a male mental health group after losing his dad to suicide has been recognised with a Royal honour.
Brad Gartland, 25, who founded his own Rochdale branch of the Andy’s Man Club mental health group, has been selected as a Platinum Champions volunteer as part of an official Jubilee project.
In 2016, Brad lost his dad to suicide and in 2020 set up the first Andy’s Man Club in Rochdale where every week men get together to talk through any issues they may face in a safe space.
Brad blew judges away with his resilience in the face of such personal tragedy, using his experience to give his time to male mental health and also founding the Stephen Gartland Foundation in memory of his dad.
He said: “I sadly lost my dad to suicide in 2016, and in his honour was inspired to make a difference and banish the taboo surrounding male mental health.
“I decided to volunteer at Andy’s Man Club – a safe space where men can come to talk about any issues they may face – in the hope that I can do my bit to uplift anyone who may be facing similar difficulties. In 2020, I founded my own branch in Rochdale.
“I dedicate my Platinum Champion award to everyone who has been struggling, feels isolated, and feels like they can’t go on.”
Former rugby league player Stephen Gartland, 45, was well loved in the community and in his youth had played professionally for Rochdale Hornets, Oldham Roughyeds and Swinton Lions.
Mr Gartland was known to friends and fans as ‘Garty’ and became a popular youth coach after ending his playing career.
Brad was selected as a Platinum Champion from more than 300 people who were nominated in the North West area for their dedication to volunteering. Nationally, he joins a line-up of 490 volunteers.
The Platinum Champions Awards were initiated by national charity Royal Voluntary Service and its President, HRH The Duchess of Cornwall, in honour of Her Majesty The Queen and the example she has set in 70 years of service.
All 490 Platinum Champions will receive a specially-designed pin and a signed certificate from the Duchess.