Forum helps men get back on track

A forum where men can talk about their concerns and struggles is set to launch in Hamilton West.

Community Constable Paul Tierney saw a need in his community for a place where men could express or "vent" - the first step, he says, to getting back on track in life.

The idea has slowly grown from the original forum type evening to its current stage where it will be held parallel with Mates Men's Network evenings.

"Mates Men's Network involves the meeting of men, in a totally confidential environment where facilitators initiate discussion," said Mr Tierney.

There will still be a forum meeting for men in the Hamilton community called Men Becoming Mates, and there will be a meeting to discuss topics and issues they may be struggling with, to be held on June 13 from 7pm at the Western Community Centre.

The forum will also give Mr Tierney a chance to explain more about the Mates Men's Network nights, which will start on April 22 at the Western Community Centre at 108 Grandview Rd, and run fortnightly from then on.

The time is yet to be confirmed but it is likely to be in the evening.

"The whole key to getting someone on the right track is them wanting to do it," he says.

"When we have men calling out for help and there being nowhere to turn to, they fall."

The project has been supported by organisations such as Work and Income, Hamilton City Council and Western Community Centre, and has the endorsement of Josiah Teokotai from Community Waikato, Hamilton City Councillor Philip Yeung and National MP Tim Macindoe.

Mr Tierney says it is supported, but is not run by police and is completely confidential.

"It is all about community."

He says it is about getting men to take ownership of themselves.

Mates Men's Network has been in operation in other parts of the country including Taranaki for six years.

Eventually Mr Tierney wants to run forums that will work alongside other organisations for other community members, such as youth.

The first Mates Men's Network night will be held on Tuesday, April 22.

To register, call 0800 4MATES and for more information go to www.mates.org.nz