Visit Guernsey and Guernsey Mind launched Here for C.H.R.I.S. on Thursday, with former footballer and popular broadcaster Chris Kamara fronting the campaign.
The initiative allows men struggling with their mental health to discreetly announce they are ‘Here for Chris’ at participating businesses and organisations. The code phrase signals they are seeking a Calm, Helpful, Reassuring and Inviting Space.
The campaign is already attracting widespread attention both on and off-island, after national coverage in the Daily Mail, and Mr Kamara’s appearance on Sky Sports from the Bathing Pools during his island visit on launch day.
Visit Guernsey marketing manager Sam Claxton said the reaction has gone beyond what the local team had hoped for.
‘The response has exceeded our expectations. Within hours of the launch, we had local businesses contacting us to ask about joining the next men’s mental health awareness training session with Guernsey Mind,’ he said.
‘That immediate willingness to get involved says a great deal about our island community and its commitment to supporting people’s wellbeing.’
Around 40 people from approximately 30 local establishments – including bars, sports clubs and barbers – have already received mental health awareness training, with further sessions planned following strong interest.
The training gives participants skills, including active listening and recognising signs that somebody may be struggling, before helping direct them towards further, professional support.
Mr Claxton said the attention generated by Mr Kamara’s involvement was giving the campaign gravitas and propelling it to new heights.
‘The coverage, both locally and nationally, has been overwhelming and has given us an even stronger platform to raise awareness of the campaign and encourage more conversations around men’s mental health,’ he said.
‘Ultimately, that’s what this initiative is all about – making it easier for people to reach out, seek support and know they’re not alone.’
And the campaign could soon receive another national boost.
‘We are actually working behind the scenes to secure a spot for Kammy on Good Morning Britain,’ said Mr Claxton.
Mr Kamara told the Guernsey Press that presenter Ben Shephard was among the close friends who repeatedly reached out to him for help when he was ‘suffering in silence’ – quietly dealing with the onset of apraxia of speech. Mr Claxton believes this connection could make the TV appearance particularly poignant.
‘Given that he credits Ben Shephard with supporting him during his own struggle, it feels like a great opportunity for a powerful interview.’