Each member of the team behind helpu. has personally encountered mental health challenges, with some having experienced the devastating impact of suicide within their close circle of family and friends. These personal struggles fostered a deep sense of empathy and understanding, fuelling a determination to make a positive difference.
about us.
Men in Wales face some of the highest suicide rates in the UK. helpu. exists to reduce suicide, tackle isolation and help men find connection, support and hope.
the founders' journey: compassion and empathy
Working in collaboration
helpu. is an independent community organisation working alongside the NHS, local authorities and partners across Wales to improve wellbeing, reduce isolation and help people find support.
By “men,” we refer to individuals who identify as male or may identify as non-binary.
Inclusive by Design
helpu. is a non-religious organisation that welcomes everyone, regardless of background, beliefs or identity. While our focus is men’s mental health, we believe supporting men complements—not competes with—the wellbeing of women and all communities. Better mental health benefits everyone.
A Community Interest Company
helpu. is a not-for-profit Community Interest Company (CIC), meaning everything we do is focused on creating social impact, with any surplus reinvested into our mission.
Volunteer-Led
helpu. is led by a dedicated team of volunteers, supported by advisors and partners who share our commitment to improving men’s mental health across Wales.
advisory board
Our Advisory Board is made up of experienced volunteer advisors who provide independent guidance, constructive challenge and strategic insight, helping shape our development and ensuring we stay true to our mission.
Sid Kennedy – Counsellor
Councillor Rhys Livesy – Cardiff Council
Michele Ryan UKCP – MSc Systemic Psychotherapist
Dylan James – Director of digital acquisition Lloyds
Mark Smith – Men’s Mental Health Campaigner
Aled Jones – Project Manager
Alison Quinn – Community Producer
key team
Ian Smith is the Founder and Director of helpu. A qualified therapist and former BBC Wales producer, he combines clinical knowledge, lived experience and communications expertise to improve men’s mental health across Wales.
Ian regularly speaks on men’s mental health, suicide prevention and community connection, working with NHS Wales, universities, local authorities and charities to help reduce stigma and strengthen support for men.
Rhys Livesy leads helpu’s business administration and financial oversight, ensuring the organisation operates effectively, transparently and responsibly. From governance and accounts to day-to-day operations, he provides the foundations that allow helpu. to focus on supporting men’s mental health across Wales.
Phil Scully lays a key role in shaping helpu’s voice, stories and community engagement. As a content creator, ghostwriter, facilitator and mental health advocate, he creates projects that informs, inspires and connects people across Wales. With a background spanning the arts, community and charity sectors, Phil is passionate about using storytelling to reduce stigma, strengthen communities and encourage positive change.
Nathan James Woolls is a seasoned designer with over 20 years of experience. He has worked with a wide range of clients across the UK and held creative roles in various private and public sector organisations.
Owen Brown Owen is a production co-ordinator volunteer and works for The Office for National Statistics.
Press and PR
Working Word
Contact: Lydia.Lambert@workingword.co.uk
Group Facilitators
Our group facilitators bring a wealth of lived experience, compassion and practical skills, creating welcoming spaces where men can connect, be heard and support one another.
Sid Kennedy
Paul Stoy
David Parry
David Wilde Carr
Rhys Livesy
