Oxford bus driver leads new mental health support group

Rhys Smith, who has worked with the Oxford Bus Company since June 2024 and lives in Blackbird Leys, Oxford, launched the support group Men’s Minds with his brother Aaron in September.

The group, which now has 15 regular attendees, meets every other Friday for community sessions and every other Saturday for football meet-ups at Leys Pools and Leisure Centre.

Mr Smith said: “I’ve got a personal connection to this issue, as there’s a family history when it comes to mental health.

“The normal processes don’t always work, and people can struggle to get the right support.

“I wanted to start something new and different, and the reaction from family and friends was huge.

“I was posting videos on social media, and they were getting lots of shares and comments.”

The group has steadily grown through word-of-mouth and outreach, which has included putting up posters in gyms, shops and barbers around Blackbird Leys, an area Mr Smith knows well.

He said: “In Blackbird Leys and Greater Leys, the rates for self-harm are higher than anywhere else in Oxfordshire.

“I’ve lived in Blackbird Leys all my life and I know everyone here.

“We began putting posters, leaflets, and banners up in gyms, barbers, and shops, and it’s been growing since.”

Mr Smith said: “We’re all part of a brotherhood.

“There’s a WhatsApp group where we check-in and chat with each other.

“When we meet, we talk about our plans, we joke and laugh, and what we want to provide is something different to your average mental health group.

“I don’t want people sitting in a circle watching a screen.

“It’s about everyone talking and there being a togetherness.”

Recently, members of Men’s Minds climbed Snowdon together.

Mr Smith said: “It was an incredible experience, and I feel very fortunate to have completed it with the group of lads we went up with.

“It was by no means an easy task, but we all made it to the top.

“There were a few challenging moments along the way, however we supported one another throughout and remained committed to not leaving anyone behind.”

His efforts have been recognised by his employer.

Luke Marion, managing director of Oxford Bus Company, said: “We’re incredibly proud of Rhys for the way he is tackling one of society’s biggest issues.

“Mental health is something the business take very seriously, yet it’s a topic which we generally shy away from as a community.

“Rhys is a real credit to Oxford Bus Company as he continues to open conversations and seek positive change.”