‘Lifeline’ men’s social group fights for survival with funding running out

The Hackney Dudes is a social group for men over the age of 50. Photograph: The Hackney Dudes

A men’s social group is fighting for survival as its funding is set to run out next month.

The Hackney Dudes is a community for men over the age of 50, many of whom are vulnerable and isolated. Set up by the social enterprise MRS Independent Living, the group has been running for more than six years, meeting on Friday mornings at Dalston Eastern Curve Garden before it opens to the public.

There, the Dudes can ‘enjoy a safe, friendly and welcoming space’, plus a free vegetarian lunch provided for around 40 members each week by staff at the garden.

Beyond the weekly meet-ups, members have been able to take part in fortnightly day trips to London attractions and further afield to places like the seaside.

Paul Lejeune is a member who found the support The Hackney Dudes provided invaluable when he was mourning the loss of his father several years ago. “Finding the group was a real lifeline”, he told the Citizen.

“I was grieving and I had some depression over my father’s death, and to go to the group and have a coffee, a chat and a laugh was perfect therapy.

“There isn’t really anything comparable, certainly not on this scale. We’re really lucky to have this amazing space to ourselves”.

The group currently boasts more than 80 members, making it the largest of its kind in Hackney and – members believe – possibly one of the biggest in London. From it, smaller breakout groups have emerged.

These include a weekly arts and crafts meet-up, The Hackney Dudes Community Band, and a short mat bowling club. Some members have even been on holiday together.

For many of the Dudes, the group provides a much-needed space where they can access support and companionship. Lejeune said this is crucial for older men in particular.

The Dudes go on excursions around London and beyond, as well as meeting at Dalston Eastern Curve Garden each week. Photograph: The Hackney Dudes

“Loneliness is a huge problem [both] in London and further afield”, he said. “People’s mental health is paramount.

“A lot of the men are quite elderly, some use walking sticks, some are in and out of hospital sometimes. But being with the group they can discuss it, they can share their concerns and their worries.

“As I say, a lot of the time just having a good chat and a laugh is so good for their wellbeing”.

The Hackney Dudes receives new referrals every week and currently has a waiting list for prospective new members.

But despite the clear demand, the group’s funding – primarily from City Bridge Foundation – will run out at the end of March. A fundraiser has been set up to secure the future of the group for the next year.

“From April, the Hackney Dudes will not receive funding from any other source and we now have to rely on your kindness and generosity”, the page reads. “Please help this vital men’s group to secure its future”.

The money raised will go towards the running of the Friday meet-ups, covering the cost of venue hire, staffing and food. With enough support, the group will also be able to continue its fortnightly excursions.

At the time of writing, the group had raised just over £6,300 of their £50,000 target. Much of this has been donated by the Dudes themselves, as well as their friends and family.

Lejeune added: “You talk to a lot of the members and they’re so concerned at the moment. They’re worried that [the group] is going to close down, and you can see how much it means to them”.

A City Bridge Foundation spokesperson said: “City Bridge Foundation is committed to supporting Londoners and ensuring our resources have the greatest impact.

“As London’s largest independent charitable funder, we have awarded more than £840m over the past 30 years.

“Our new 10-year Standing with Londoners funding policy guides our grant making, focusing on changing the systems that keep people marginalised, while also addressing the issues communities face right now.

“We have been pleased to support MRS Independent Living for the past three years, including providing additional flexible funding. We remain focused on backing organisations that align with our strategy and strengthen communities across the capital”.

Donate to the fundraiser using the QR code below. If you’re having trouble accessing the fundraiser, click here.