Game of II Halves Conference brings 'Real Talk' on men's mental health to the Beacon of Light

The Game of II Halves Conference, a free, large-scale conference focused on men’s mental health, will return to the Beacon of Light this April with an afternoon of honest and inspirational conversations.

Following the successful relaunch of the event last year, the Foundation of Light’s Game of II Halves project will host a follow-up conference titled ‘Real Talk’, taking place on Wednesday 29 April, from 12:30pm to 5pm, at the Beacon of Light.A series of informed guest speakers will give presentations before taking part in a panel discussion including a question and answer with the audience.

Delivered as part of the Game of II Halves men’s mental health ambassadorship programme, the conference will bring together expert speakers, lived experience, and practical support. The afternoon will feature a series of guest presentations followed by a panel discussion and audience question and answer session.

Confirmed guest speakers include:

• Anthony Hutton, founder of the Never Throw in the Towel project
• James Fildes, founder and managing director of Space North East
• Professor Paul Galdas, Professor of Men’s Health at the University of York

More details on speakers can be found below.

There will be opportunities for attendees to connect with many of the local services linked to mental health during networking time before and after the talks, with a range of stalls throughout the arena offering information and advice.

The conference is a key part of the Foundation of Light’s Game of II Halves programme, which aims to raise awareness of mental health issues and suicide prevention. The initiative supports men aged 16 and over in Sunderland, helping them develop the skills, confidence, and knowledge needed to build mentally resilient lives.

Tickets are free and can be booked online via the link below.

Book Online: Game of II Halves Conference (Insert Link once available)

Anthony Hutton

Founder of Never Throw in the Towel Project. Anthony will share stories of his own lived experience, linking back to his mental health and mindset, with the message to ‘never give up’!

James Fildes

Founder of Space North East, who are redefining men’s mental health support. Space North East delivers accessible, community-led, and non-clinical interventions for men. James also serves as the Chair of Washington Mind and is the host of the Space To Think podcast.

Professor Paul Galdas

Paul Galdas is a professor of Men’s Health and advises the Department of Health and Social Care on the delivery of England’s Men’s Health Strategy. Paul will present on ‘Men’s Mental Health: What Actually Works (And Why)’.

Game of II Halves Conference – ‘Real Talk’

Date: Wednesday 29 April

Time: 12:30pm to 5pm

Location: Beacon of Light

Book Online: Click Here (Insert link once available)