A safe place for men to find support

Altruistic. Committed. Humble

John Denholm has founded an organisation that offers mateship and emotional support to more than twenty thousand men across South Australia.

His non-profit organisation, SA Brothers, uses social media to create a safe, non-judgmental space for men of all ages and walks of life to ask for advice and support.

There are also meetups during the week so men can have a chat if they are having a hard time at home or are dealing with mental health issues.

The aim is to reduce the stigma around men's mental health and help men move forward with a more positive outlook.

“I founded the group in 2017 after dealing with my own mental health issues and seeing the gap in the system,” says John, who feels humbled to be voted a Westfield Local Hero.

“It means a lot that the time and effort I am putting in is recognised. Our numbers have grown substantially in just 18 months without any backing, so we are obviously filling a massive void in the system,” says John. “This will help us reach further into the community and more blokes.”

Despite the demands of his full-time job, John has been the driving force behind SA Brothers’ success and has personally funded much of its development.

The organisation also provides practical help, such as emergency food, shelter and clothing in certain circumstances.

John was the chief organiser of a Christmas event in Bonython Park, which provided men at risk and their families with a meal, activities and a showbag for each child. The experience has been credited with reunifying several previously estranged families.

Westfield Local Heroes are nominated and voted for by their communities, with the three top finalists per Westfield centre each awarded a $10,000 grant for their affiliated organisation.

SA Brothers will use its grant to provide mental health first aid and suicide prevention training to its administrative team.

“It’s really important for us to better manage the people who come forward with mental health issues,” says John.

“The grant will also help with social media management and practical help such as food vouchers and emergency clothing.”

__For further information on the Westfield Local Heroes program, click here. __