A mental health and wellbeing space supporting men across the Isle of Wight will close its doors for good at the end of January.
Men Only IOW has confirmed that Rodger & Steve’s Place on High Street, Ryde will cease operations on 30th January, due to financial pressures.
The hub has provided a safe and welcoming environment for men to talk, connect and seek support over the last 5 years. However, rising costs, inconsistent income, and ongoing funding challenges have made it unsustainable to continue.
Founder Karl Hart has said the closure is necessary to avoid debt and further instability, describing it as the only responsible way forward.
Over the next 2 weeks, efforts will focus on helping current service users and ensuring they know where else to turn for help.
Karl Hart, Founder of Men Only CIC, has said:
“The need for the work we have done in our community has never been in doubt.
“What we have achieved has only been possible because of the trust and courage of the people who walked through our doors.”
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Rodger & Steve’s Place evolved from Men Only’s wider mission to tackle isolation and stigma surrounding men’s mental health on the Isle of Wight. It grew into a unique support space, known for its informal, peer-led atmosphere and approachable drop-in model.
The team is now urging anyone needing help to reach out to alternative services while expressing gratitude for the community’s belief and support over the years.
Men Only IOW will continue to operate in other forms, but the closure of Rodger & Steve’s Place marks the end of a key chapter in its community-facing work.
Why is the government not helping financially? Men need help with MH just as much as women.
A critical provision within the community that bridges gaps in provision effectively and makes a real difference to enhancing the lifes of others who otherwise may have little support when needed. Time for all to step up in any way possible.
Who said they didn’t? And by the way, it isn’t “the government” who pays. It’s the taxpayer.