I met recently with Thomas Campbell of Men's Engagement Network, a local man from the city, who because of his understanding of social isolation and loneliness caused by addiction, had an idea to bring men together in a safe space.

The Beginning of an Idea
Thomas describes its simple beginning, ‘It all started with a simple question: Why isn’t there a space for men to talk openly and support each other? For me, this journey began after completing a two-year aftercare program through Northlands, following my recovery from alcohol addiction. Every week, we’d sit together, share our struggles, and lean on those who were further along in their journeys. It was life changing. I began wondering why such a model didn’t exist outside of addiction recovery—why there wasn’t a place where men could gather weekly to talk, share, and support each other through life’s challenges.’
But from the very first night, something magical happened.
With the help of Ken Leonard, a social worker with Glendermott Medical, they planned a 12-week program with guest speakers addressing topics like mental health, addiction, and relationships. But from the very first night, something magical happened. Instead of focusing on structured talks, the men naturally began sharing their own stories, connecting with one another, and offering peer support. Witnessing the support men offered each other they quickly realised ‘This is what it’s meant to be.’
From a 12-Week Pilot to a Thriving Community
The original concept was simple: run a 12-week programme where guest speakers would address topics like mental health, addiction, parenting, and more. But when the first group of men gathered, something unexpected happened. Instead of focusing solely on the planned structure, the men naturally began sharing their stories and supporting each other.
Sometimes the most powerful movements come from a simple idea born out of personal experience
When we think about community support, we often imagine formal programmes or structured initiatives, but sometimes the most powerful movements come from a simple idea born out of personal experience. That’s exactly how the Men’s Café initiative began—through a journey of recovery, reflection, and the desire to create a safe space for men to connect.
Thomas describes how the café meet ups organically evolved, ‘That moment showed us what the Men’s Café was meant to be. We didn’t need to overcomplicate it—just provide a space for men to connect. Two years later, what started as a single 12-week program has grown into five Men’s Cafés, meeting five nights a week, with over 60 members in active WhatsApp groups.'
A Network of Support Beyond the Cafés
The impact of Men’s Café extends far beyond the weekly meetups, today the cafés and other initiatives are coordinated under the ‘Men’s Engagement Network’. The men have built strong friendships, organising activities like trips to Belfast markets, cinema nights, and even curry nights where they cook for each other. The social aspect has been transformative for many, providing the human connection that is so vital for thriving.
One of the most inspiring projects to emerge from the group is the book What Makes a Real Man. This publication began as part of a six-week program at the Millennium Forum, where men were invited to write their stories. The response was overwhelming. The stories, covering topics like suicide, grief, addiction, and mental health, were brought together in an exhibition before being compiled into a book.
Liam Duffy, one of the group’s members, took the lead in bringing the book to life. It’s now a powerful testament to the resilience and vulnerability of the men who contributed, offering readers insight into their journeys and the strength found in shared experiences.
The Challenges and Rewards of Supporting Others
Thomas cautions the reality of running the Men’s Cafés and describes the elements employed to meet challenges, 'From addressing mental health crises to ensuring we’re equipped to handle difficult conversations, we’ve prioritised training in suicide awareness, first aid, and even walking safety for group activities.'
Empower them to face future challenges with resilience
One of the key lessons has been the importance of boundaries—not taking others’ struggles home with you, but instead guiding them to find their own solutions. By doing so, we empower them to face future challenges with resilience.'
Looking Ahead: Growing the Vision
Going from strength to strength Thomas has visions for the future, ‘As I reflect on the last two and a half years, I’m amazed at how far we’ve come. If I could change one thing, I’d have started sooner. The partnerships we’ve built, like working with social workers who can directly address issues in real time, have been invaluable.
Looking ahead, I have big dreams for the future. One idea I’m particularly excited about is creating a play based on the stories in What Makes a Real Man. While the book has had a tremendous impact, some people connect more deeply through visual and auditory storytelling. A play could bring these stories to life, reaching new audiences and continuing to break down the stigma around men’s mental health.'
The Power of Connection
The success of Men’s Café has reinforced a simple truth: people need people. While therapies, medications, and interventions have their place, nothing compares to the healing power of connection.
Someone who can lend a bit of hope until they can find their own—can make all the difference
Hope is crucial as Thomas explains, ‘Whether it’s a man navigating grief, addiction, or a complicated health system, knowing there’s someone who understands—someone who can lend a bit of hope until they can find their own—can make all the difference.'
The Men’s Engagement Network is proof that even the smallest idea, born out of personal struggle, can grow into something truly transformative. It’s not just about coffee and conversation; it’s about building a community where men can feel seen, heard, and supported—where they can rediscover their purpose and, perhaps for the first time, feel truly connected.
To learn more about the Men’s Engagement Network or to get a copy of What Makes a Real Man, reach out to them on Facebook
Together, we can continue building connections and changing lives.
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