Conference aims to empower men to bring positive change to communities

Two thousand men are expected to attend a major conference next month to help men become forces for positive change in their families and communities.

The day long event is being hosted by The Men's Room, a charity set up four years ago to help men reach their potential by helping them to be better husbands, fathers, and leaders.

Organisers are hoping for a large turn-out from within the African and Caribbean community.

Founder of The Men's Room, Clive Lewis, commented, "We hope that men from across the UK will be inspired to attend this event in their droves.

"There has been so much negative press recently about black men in particular. It is my hope that the National Band of Brothers Conference, whose theme is 'Where Are You?' will play a part in re-dressing the balance and inspire attendees to play a part in addressing some of the pressing problems we are witnessing in British society."

Guest speakers will include Health Minister Ivan Lewis MP, who will address mental health issues, Robert Ivy, a former drug user and dealer whose life has been totally transformed and Bishop Derek Webley MBE, a church leader who has been recognised for his work in his local community of Birmingham.

Since its inception four years ago, The Men's Room has actively sought ways to help men achieve their potential. They have a special focus on young black males. In 2005 it launched a Mentoring Scheme that provided support to young black men, focusing in particular on ex-offenders and prison inmates. In 2006 they joined forces with the Royal Courts of Justice to help young males thinking of pursuing a career in law.

Last year, Clive Lewis chaired the government appointed independent panel that produced the REACH Report. The report showed how the UK could benefit by £24bn by helping young black males to achieve their potential.

Errol Williams, also of The Mens Room explained, "The Men's Room is keen to engage with wider society, that's why we have participated in schemes and projects that benefit to men in communities across the country.

"The church is the largest contributor of voluntary services in this country. We want to bring both Christian and non-Christian men together from across the denominational spectrum to encourage greater collaboration and increase working partnerships that will enable men to impact society in a positive way.

"We believe that this year's conference will do that, as well as provide men with much needed support and encouragement."

The National Band of Brothers Conference will take place at the Bethel Convention Centre in West Bromwich on 27 September 2008.


On the web: www.themens-room.org.uk