“Friendships were made and it was a great opportunity for dads and male family members to meet and share their experiences, while learning new skills and having fun” – StrongMen event included survival, self-defence and nutrition workshops

Dads and other male family members receiving support from a leading children’s hospice came together for a jam-packed day of fun and workshops. The all-day event was hosted by East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH) in conjunction with the StrongMen charity. It took place at The Nook – EACH’s hospice near Norwich – but was also for dads, grandfathers, male carers and older male siblings connected to the charity’s other hospices, in Ipswich and near Cambridge. It was for those whose children currently access services, as well as those who are bereaved. They came together for a selection of tailormade sessions, all run by top coaches in their field. There were workshops on nutrition, self-defence, fitness, psychoeducation, wellbeing, coaching and survival techniques and there was also an osteopath on site to offer support and advice. Most of the activities took place outside and there were welcome drinks to start with, followed by lunch and refreshments throughout. The day then finished with a barbecue. Lucy Hynes, EACH Groups and Events Coordinator, said: “It was a huge success and very positive experience. “Friendships were made and it was a great opportunity for dads and male family members to meet and share their experiences, while learning new skills and having fun. “The feedback was superb and we’re sincerely grateful for the support we received from StrongMen. “The wonderful team were just brilliant and the choice of activities perfect.” StrongMen was set up initially to support men following bereavement and the free EACH event took place on Saturday (29^th April). Seventeen men took part, in addition to two of EACH’s Service Managers, Nathan Muskett and Mike Higgins, and The Nook counsellor Andy Jaggard. Efrem Brynin, co-founder of StrongMen, said: “It was amazing to be there and all of us felt privileged to meet and support the guys from EACH. “They’re outstanding individuals, backed by an amazing facility and team. “To listen to the dads and male family members and hear what they do and go through every day was truly humbling. “We hope the support we delivered helps their wellbeing in some way and genuinely look forward to working together in the future. “These men are truly amazing.” For more information about StrongMen, head to www.StrongMen.org.uk (Social Media: @StrongMenOrgUk).