As part of Mental Health Awareness Week, 27-year-old I Kissed A Boy star Jake Devline-Reed from Swansea has teamed up with Welsh men’s mental health not-for-profit Helpu to launch a new online support group for gay and bisexual men right across Wales.
Following the success of their Cardiff-based Gay & Bi Men’s group, and backed by NHS Wales Executive on Suicide Prevention and Self Harm, Helpu is expanding its reach by launching a fortnightly Wales wide online men’s group, starting Monday 18 May.
Jake’s involvement marks a powerful moment for LGBTQ+ mental health in Wales, where recent ONS statistics show the need is urgent. LGB+ people are 2.5 times more likely to self-harm. Suicide rates are over twice as high as those of heterosexual people and bisexual people face the highest risk.
The new online group is said to offer a safe, confidential space for gay and bisexual men to connect, share, and support one another.
No stranger to the challenges of mental health and suicidal thoughts, Jake Devline understands the power of connection. “I’ve been in that dark place where you feel like you can’t talk to anyone — where suicidal thoughts creep in and isolation takes over. For me, connection was everything. That’s why I’m backing this group. It gives gay and bi men a space to be real, be heard, and realise they’re not alone. Sometimes, just knowing someone understands can make all the difference.”
Ian Smith, Director of Helpu believes the initiative is vital. “Our gay and bi men’s groups exist because too many men still feel isolated and unable to speak openly. These spaces allow men to connect without fear of judgment — and that kind of support can be lifesaving.”
With much of Wales being rural, accessibility is a major barrier to mental health support. Helpu’s new virtual group format is designed to break that barrier — reaching men wherever they are.
Phil Scully from Helpu said: “As someone living with a chronic illness, I know how hard it can be to attend events in person. That’s why I’m proud we’re launching an online group — to reach those who need community in a different way.”
Michael Cameron, Group Facilitator from Helpu added: “So many of the men who come to our group have never spoken openly about how they feel — not even to their closest friends. What we offer isn’t therapy, but it is powerful. It’s about being seen, being heard, and realising you’re not broken or alone. That kind of connection can be a turning point.”
Helpu will hold sessions online fortnightly at 7pm from Monday 18 May.
