Trafford residents can now sign up for free golf lessons as part of a new mental wellbeing initiative launching this month at Altrincham Golf Course and Driving Range.
The programme, called mentalitee, was founded by local golfer Owen Coombes, who drew on his own experience of anxiety and depression after a difficult period in 2023 led him to rediscover the calming effects of time spent at the driving range.
"I found that simply hitting golf balls in a calm, outdoor setting had a positive effect on my mental wellbeing," said Owen, who has been playing golf since childhood. "I began to see how the same approach could help others."
The not-for-profit company runs small group sessions of up to four people, led by a qualified instructor. Participants have their own space and are under no pressure to interact - the focus is on the activity itself, at their own pace.
Subsidised follow-up visits and online guidance are also available to help people continue beyond the initial sessions.
Owen is clear that the scheme isn't about recruiting new club members. "It's about getting outdoors, doing something simple and taking a bit of time for yourself," he said. "It can also open the door to doing more or connecting with others, if and when people feel ready."
Learn more about the mentalitee pilot
The pilot is backed by Trafford Council, Trafford Leisure and local partners as part of the council's wider work on healthy and independent living. It has already been trialled on a small scale, with this phase aimed at reaching more residents and refining how it can be rolled out further.
Eve Parker, the council's Executive Member for Leisure, Arts, Culture and Heritage, said: "Supporting residents to live healthy and independent lives is a key priority for Trafford, and initiatives like mentalitee show how physical activity can play a meaningful role in wellbeing.
“What is especially positive about this programme is its focus on accessibility creating opportunities for people who might not usually take part in golf to get active in a way that feels manageable and welcoming. We are pleased to support this pilot as part of our wider work with partners to help people move more and stay well.”
Residents interested in taking part can register at mentalitee.co.uk.
