Chris Kamara launches men's mental health initiative in Guernsey

A campaign backed by football pundit Chris Kamara and aimed at helping men struggling with their mental health has begun in Guernsey.

The former football player and manager turned TV presenter is working with VisitGuernsey and Guernsey Mind on his 'Here for CHRIS' initiative to encourage men who are struggling to ask for support.

Chris stands for a 'Calm, Helpful, Reassuring and Inviting Space'. 

Staff at more than 40 hospitality venues, including hotels, shops, bars, restaurants, sports clubs and barbers, have received mental health awareness training.

It means they are prepared to listen to a person who may come in and says they are 'Here for Chris.'

After the conversation, staff can signpost the person to local mental health services.

It's estimated more than a quarter of men are reluctant to discuss their mental health with family and friends.  3 in 10 say a safe space away from their usual environment would make it easier to ask for help.

Chris Kamara has had his own public struggle with his mental health, which is why he is supporting it:

'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 and I'd encourage locals and visitors alike to utilise these community hubs and say 'I’m here for C.H.R.I.S'."

68 year old Chris was diagnosed in 2022 with the neurological condition apraxia, which slows down both his speech and his thought processes.  It was this that that sparked the decline in his mental wellbeing.

Kammy, as he is better known to fans, has been in Guernsey for the launch:

"It might just be the first step in targeting the mental health crisis facing men in the UK and I’ve been bowled over by the generosity, support and openness of locals here in Guernsey who want to be a part of this'.

Sam Claxton from Visit Guernsey explains why they are backing it:

"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."

The campaign is already receiving national media attention:

'Ben Shephard saved me from suicidal thoughts': Chris Kamara says This Morning star recommended therapy that saved his life - as he launches mental health campaign on Guernsey https://t.co/fLopbup1TC

— Daily Mail (@DailyMail) October 1, 2026