Pit Stops
Pit Stops brings men together through activities and conversation to build friendship, connection and a sense of belonging.
What is a Pit Stop?
Pit Stops are MensCraft’s weekly, welcoming get-togethers where men can:
- Take a breather from everyday pressures
- Connect with other men
- Sit companionably alongside other men
- Talk if they want to – or just listen
- Get support through conversations
- Try new things such as art and craft activities
Like a real pit stop, it’s about pausing, refuelling, and getting back on the road feeling steadier.
Prior to my first Pit Stop, I walked around the city for an hour trying to think of a good reason to go home. I stepped into Pit Stop full of fear but was made to feel very welcome. I’m so glad I attended and look forward to the next one.
Pit Stop participant
Who are Pit Stops for?
Pit Stops are open to any man aged 18 or over, including those who are:
- Feeling stressed, isolated or lonely
- Going through changes at home, work or in relationships
- Looking for connection without pressure
- Not sure what they need — but know they don’t want to handle things alone
Everyone is welcome, and you can participate at your own pace.
What happens at Pit Stops?
Each Pit Stop is a little different, but always includes:
- A relaxed, informal setting with plenty of seating
- Activities including art, craft and board games
- Refreshments such as tea, coffee and biscuits
- A “check-in”, an opportunity to talk about how you are – or just listen
There’s no agenda and no pressure – you take part in whatever way feels right.
Who runs Pit Stops?
Pit Stops are run by a small, experienced team that includes:
- A Pit Stop Coordinator – a paid member of the MensCraft team
- Volunteers, who themselves are Pit Stop members
- The Pit Stop Programme Manager, who ensures the local team is supported
- The members themselves, who often come up with ideas for activities, both at the regular weekly groups but also independently
Many Pit Stop Coordinators have at one time been members themselves, so they understand how it can feel to show up for the first time.
Why Pit Stops matter
Over time, men who come to Pit Stops often:
- Feel more positive about life
- Cope better with stress and change
- Build confidence to talk more openly
- Find further support when they’re ready
Small moments of connection can make a big difference.
Positive Elders
Later life can bring change – retirement, loss, shifts in identity, health issues, or new responsibilities. Positive Elders is a MensCraft project for men aged 55 and over, creating spaces to connect, reflect and stay actively involved in life and community.
Hoodies for Happiness
The Hoodies are a motley bunch of MensCraft wellbeing activists who go around committing “random acts of kindness“. You might find them making Christmas crackers for a local church warm space or encouraging people to explore their playful side at an event.
Find a Pit Stop
Pit Stops are open to any man aged 18 or over. You don’t need a referral and you don’t need to tell us in advance that you’re coming, unless you want to. If you’d like to speak to your local Pit Stop Coordinator before coming, you can find their contact details below.
Discover courses & activities
You don’t have to choose your closest Pit Stop – some of our members go to two or more different locations each week. Just drop in to any Pit Stop or get in touch to find out more about sessions, locations and times