17/06/2026
Just over a year ago, the County Durham Resilience Service was approached by Hamsteels Community Centre, Esh Winning to support the creation of a new community group for men in the local area.
To get things started, an open day was organised, bringing together a range of local organisations and projects to showcase what support and opportunities were available within the community. From this event, Deerness Valley 4 Males was formed – a group for local men, run by local men.
From the beginning, the group wanted to offer something meaningful and different. With support and guidance from the Resilience Service on how to set up and run a group, it quickly became clear that this was more than just a place to meet. It became a space to reduce isolation, build connections, and share skills, ideas and experiences.
Over the past year, the group has taken part in a wide range of activities, including cooking sessions, chair-based exercise, mindful meditation, curling, archery and boxercise. They have also welcomed guest speakers from organisations such as Wellbeing for Life, the Alzheimer’s Society, Hamsteels History Group, The Pain Haven and many more.
The impact of the group has been significant, as reflected in the words of those who attend:
“Being involved with the group has helped me feel better mentally and physically, widen my circle of friends, and try new activities.”
“After losing my wife, I needed something to focus on and a way to make new friends.”
“I had lost my wife 8 months earlier and was finding life tough. Joining the group gave me a reason to get out of the house, and I’ve met people I now consider friends.”
“It reduced my isolation as I’m relatively new to the village. I’ve learned new skills and gained knowledge in areas like cooking, games, local history and health. It’s a unique group where everyone contributes.”
It’s fantastic to see how this group has developed and the real difference it is making in people’s lives.
We understand that it can sometimes be difficult for men to attend groups, especially where there may be a stigma around opening up or talking about personal experiences. That’s why it was so important for this group to offer a relaxed, supportive environment where people can connect in a way that feels comfortable to them.
The County Durham Resilience Service supported the group through its first six months, helping with networking, ideas and activity planning. Today, the group is fully led by its members, and with an exciting programme of activities planned for the year ahead, it continues to go from strength to strength.
If you’re feeling isolated, looking to learn new skills, or simply want to be part of a welcoming community, you’ll find a warm welcome at Deerness Valley 4 Males.
The County Durham Resilience Service wishes the group every success for the future.
