SPEAK
About Us
Welcome to SPEAK, where we inspire and empower men to embrace their mental health journeys. Join us in fostering a supportive community through open dialogue and personal growth.
SPEAK
Born from Pain. Built for Purpose
Hello, I’m Alfie Ruffell. I’m 29 years old, born and raised in Portsmouth — a city that has carried the heavy label of being the worst in the UK for young male suicide.
On 10 April 2023, I lost a good friend, Mason Peddle. Shortly after, we lost Ian Lamb. More recently, another good friend, Kapil Gosh, passed away. Each loss was a devastating reminder of how many people in my community are silently battling with their mental health.
These men are not statistics. They were sons, brothers, fathers, and friends. This charity lives on in their names — and in honour of all the fallen men before and after them.
Not long after Mason and Ian’s passing, I hit my own breaking point. I’d been pushing myself too hard, taking on more than I could carry, until I burned out completely. The stress affected everyone around me. I had to move back in with my mum for a while. My brothers rallied around me, and just by talking and being there, they helped me through. That moment showed me the incredible power of speaking up.
Out of that experience, SPEAK was born.
What started as a small men’s group in Portsmouth has grown into a movement open to everyone — all genders, all ages, all backgrounds. Our goal is simple: to create safe spaces where people can connect, build resilience, and find hope again.
SPEAK
Our Weekly Sessions
SPEAK is built on consistency and community. Week after week, rain or shine, we show up. Every session is free, inclusive, and led by people who genuinely care:
For the past 18 months, every Saturday without fail — wind, rain, or shine — we’ve walked together. These walks are fully inclusive and open to everyone. They are more than exercise: they are moving conversations, a safe space to unload, to laugh, to grieve, to celebrate small wins, or simply to walk beside others who understand. The walk has become a lifeline, raising awareness in the community and showing Portsmouth — and beyond — that there is always someone willing to listen.
On Tuesdays, Simon, an expert personal trainer, runs fitness sessions that strengthen both body and mind. It’s not about six-packs or competition; it’s about moving your body, releasing stress, and discovering what you’re capable of in a supportive, encouraging environment.
Brad leads our running sessions, creating an atmosphere where every step is a chance to grow. For some, it’s their first jog; for others, it’s a way to push their limits. What matters most is running side by side, proving to ourselves that resilience is built one stride at a time.
Thursdays are for calm. Macca guides us through meditation practices that teach grounding, presence, and mindfulness. For many, this is the first time they’ve felt stillness in years — a chance to reset, sleep better, and carry a sense of balance back into daily life.
Why We Exist
Over the past year, our WhatsApp group has become a daily anchor, providing round-the-clock connection and encouragement. Members have overcome addiction, managed depression, and stepped back from suicidal thoughts, all through the strength of peer support and accountability.
SPEAK has already made a huge impact in Portsmouth. Now, we’re expanding beyond men, beyond the city, and into industries across the UK — starting with construction, where suicide rates are three times the national average.
At our heart, we are a community. A place where anyone can show up, be heard, and find hope. Together, we’re making sure no one suffers in silence.
In Memory Of
SPEAK is dedicated to the memory of Mason Peddle, Ian Lamb, Kapil Gosh, and all the lives lost to suicide.
We carry their names forward in everything we do.
How We Help
Free WhatsApp Communities
Safe spaces to talk, 24/7.
Weekly Expert-Led Sessions
Covering psychology, fitness, meditation, and peer walks.
Peer-to-Peer Walks
18 months strong, every Saturday, wind, rain, or shine.
Mental Health Post Boxes
Anonymous, powerful outreach tool for those who can’t say it out loud.
Personal Wellness Plans
Bespoke strategies covering mindfulness, nutrition, grounding, journaling, and more.
Corporate Partnerships
Tailored workplace wellbeing, starting with construction.