Did you know that men account for 75% of suicides, making it the leading cause of death for men under 45?
These staggering statistics highlight the urgent need for mental health support for men.
Brothers in Arms, a Scottish charity dedicated to male mental well-being, is leading the way. It has launched an innovative mental health training programme that features on the Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework (SCQF).

‘Introduction to Conversations for Male Mental Health’ has been credit-rated at SCQF level 5, with one credit point. This shows that the programme is the same level of difficulty as a National 5 and takes 10 hours to complete.
Gary Goldie: The vision behind the programme
The programme wouldn’t exist without the passion and expertise of Gary Goldie. As a personal trainer and mental health advocate, Gary has been instrumental in its development.
In collaboration with the Violence Reduction Unit, part of Police Scotland, Gary and the team identified that men found it much easier to open up to their barbers than their GP.
With vital input and experience from Rebel Rebel Barbers and support from the Psychology Department at Strathclyde University a structured approach to addressing sensitive topics such as depression, self harm and suicide was created.
This led to the creation of the Reaching In conversations. These conversations provide barbers and other professionals with tools to broach difficult subjects and offer non-judgemental support.
Gary then delivered the training to various student groups within Glasgow Clyde College, and decided to have the programme credit rated onto the SCQF.
During the process, he worked closely with all partners to ensure the design of the programme met the highest standards.

Why SCQF credit rating matters
Placing the training on the SCQF means learners earn a recognised qualification that is quality assured, while developing key skills.
It is a valuable addition to a CV, and having it on the SCQF ensures that employers will understand its level of difficulty and worth.
What participants are saying
The programme is being delivered at Glasgow Clyde College to students studying hairdressing, sport, fitness and construction. Learners have praised its transformative impact.
Duncan Fisher, a facilities officer at Edrington and course participant, said: “This course has been hugely impactful. I feel much more equipped to support others and start meaningful conversations about mental health.”
With skills in active listening, resilience and crisis intervention, participants are prepared to make a real difference in their personal and professional lives.

Who is the course for?
This programme is designed for:
- Professionals in education, healthcare and charity sectors
- Managers and HR professionals
- Social workers and community leaders
- Individuals who want to better support the men in their lives
Whether you’re helping a colleague, friend or family member, this course empowers you to approach mental health conversations with confidence and care.
Brothers in Arms: Technology meets compassion
Brothers in Arms uses cutting-edge technology to support male mental health. Their Blethr digital therapy platform offers free, anonymous support tailored specifically for men. With no data stored and no referrals needed, Blethr creates a safe space for men to manage their mental well-being.

To date, over 2,000 men have accessed therapy through Blethr, while more than 3,000 have engaged with Brothers in Arms’ support content.
How you can make a difference
Introduction to Conversations for Male Mental Health is more than a qualification—it’s a tool for creating positive change in male mental health. By empowering people to have meaningful conversations, Brothers in Arms is working to save lives and break the stigma surrounding mental health issues.
Ready to take the first step?
Learn more about the Introduction to Conversations for Male Mental Health programme.

Explore the Blethr platform for free digital therapy.
Please note, Brothers in Arms is not a crisis service. For urgent help, contact your GP or Samaritans on 116123.
For more information on having your training programme credit rated to the SCQF, please visit Get Your Programme on the SCQF.