VisitGuernsey launches new men's mental health initiative with former professional footballer, broadcaster and mental health advocate, Chris Kamara

'Here for C.H.R.I.S' transforms everyday high street locations into designated mental health spaces to support the one in four men struggling with their mental health

Over a quarter of men across the UK are hesitant to discuss their mental health with family or friends, fearing that their loved ones won't be able to support them. One in five men also hide away from these key conversations, with a third (35 per cent) trying and failing to start a conversation for fear of not knowing how or when to approach the topic.

The findings come from the latest research from VisitGuernsey* – the Channel Island that welcomes more than 150,000 visitors from the UK a year, famous for its natural spaces, slower way of living and well-being focussed lifestyle – who have identified that talking about mental health can be daunting, and for many, the fear of burdening family and friends remains a significant barrier to seeking help.

The new research highlights that three in ten men agree that having a safe, discreet space away from their usual environment, such as when on holiday, would make opening a conversation and asking for support much easier.

To address this gap, VisitGuernsey, together with Chris Kamara, former professional footballer, broadcaster and mental health advocate are launching ‘Here for C.H.R.I.S’ – which stands for a Calm, Helpful, Reassuring and Inviting Space. The new initiative, launching initially in Guernsey encourages men who are struggling with their mental health to come into hotels, shops, bars, restaurants, sports clubs, and barbers across the Island and say: “I’m here for Chris”.

Anyone doing so will be greeted by a member of the team who has undertaken basic men’s mental health awareness training and has volunteered to have a judgement-free, reassuring conversation before pointing them in the direction of official resources and specialist mental health support such as registered charity, Guernsey Mind. All participating establishments will have 'Here for C.H.R.I.S' flyers and QR codes directing people to Guernsey Mind’s resource hub – making the support accessible for those who may not want to speak directly to someone as well.

The new initiative turns everyday places across the island into designated, discreet safe spaces for those wanting, needing or crucially thinking about who to ask for support.

Renowned sports presenter and former professional footballer Chris Kamara is fronting the initiative after his own mental health challenges following his battle with illness. He commented “As a man, it can be hard to open-up and be honest about mental health struggles. Sometimes, just knowing where fuss-free support can be sought is what is needed. I'd encourage locals and visitors alike to utilise these community hubs and say 'I’m here for C.H.R.I.S' – it might just be the first step in targeting the mental health crisis facing men in the UK. I’ve been bowled over by the generosity, support and openness of locals here in Guernsey who want to be a part of this”.

Launching today, the initiative has seen more than 40 Guernsey locals already partaking in basic men’s mental health awareness training, delivered by Guernsey Mind, with an additional 50 waitlisted for a session pencilled in for early next year.

Sam Claxton, Marketing Manager at VisitGuernsey said: “It’s been fantastic working with and learning from Guernsey Mind on this initiative as we understand that the issue of increasing mental health challenges is not going anywhere. As an island escape less than 50 minutes from London, we see a variety of travellers landing on our doorstep, many of whom are seeking a break from busy, city life.

“’Here for C.H.R.I.S’ is part of our wider ‘No Man is an Island’ campaign where we’re actively encouraging younger male travellers – a growing audience for us – to visit the island and enjoy a much-needed break. We have long discussed the benefits of Guernsey’s active lifestyle, fresh air, outdoor experiences and incredible local produce, and we truly believe our Islands are the antidote to stressful city life.

"Working with Chris has been incredible. He is the perfect person to be involved in this campaign, given how openly he has shared his own experiences and his background in professional sport, an environment where there is a strong stigma around these issues.”

Amanda Hibbs from Guernsey Mind added said: “The awareness training sessions we have delivered provide advice on how to spot the signs that someone may be struggling, along with tips on how to have an honest, low-key conversation with someone who may need support. We also provide information about where to direct people who may require additional help.”

For more information, including how to participate, please visit the No Man is an Island hub at visitguernsey.com/no-man-is-an-island.

*All surveys were conducted between 9th September 2026 and 14th September 2026. The sample comprised 1,000 UK men aged 18-65-years-old. All research conducted adheres to the MRS Codes of Conduct (2023) in the UK and ICC/ESOMAR World Research Guidelines).

- ENDS -

Notes to Editors

For media enquiries, please contact the LOTUS team at guernsey@wearelotus.co.uk

For more information on visiting the Islands of Guernsey, please visit www.visitguernsey.com

How to get there:

With flight times from the UK as little as 40 minutes and ferry sailings from three hours, visitors can opt to take the ferry over the Channel from Poole or Portsmouth or fly directly from the UK with British Airways and Aurigny. From April 2026 British Airways will operate one daily flight from London Heathrow Terminal 5 via ba.com. Aurigny operates year-round direct flights to Guernsey from London, Southampton, and other regional airports - www.aurigny.com. Brittany Ferries operates fast and traditional ferries from Poole and Portsmouth to Guernsey year-round - www.brittany-ferries.co.uk. Ferries depart from Guernsey's St Peter Port to Sark, Alderney, and Herm at multiple times throughout the day during the summer.

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