TIME:TO Talk – BIBA hosts a new feature, the Men’s Mental Health Breakfast, sponsored by Markel, on the morning of Thursday 14 May at The BIBA Conference.
This new initiative shines a spotlight on men’s mental wellbeing within the insurance community, creating space for men to have honest conversations with each other, share experiences and get practical support. Speakers include ANDYSMANCLUB Chairman & Co-Founder, Luke Ambler, football presenter and podcast host, Peter Crouch, and Steve Heath, Director of Mental Health in Business. Additionally, a panel of leading industry speakers will bring the discussion back to the insurance industry and how we can better support colleagues and loved ones who may be struggling with their mental health.
The Priory’s 2023 survey of 1,000 UK men in their mid-life found that 77% had experienced symptoms of common mental health problems such as anxiety, stress or depression, yet 40% had never spoken to anyone about their mental wellbeing.
Graeme Trudgill, BIBA CEO said ‘It’s TIME:TO Talk about men’s mental health. According to Men’s Minds Matter, 47% of men think there’s stigma around going to therapy and only 36% of referrals for talking therapies are for men. We want to support men feeling more comfortable sharing and this is why we are looking forward to launching our first ever Men’s Mental Health Breakfast at The BIBA Conference. We want to create a space where men can share their stories and offer practical tips and advice so that we break the stigma and find common ground amongst friends and colleagues in the industry.’
The Men’s Mental Health breakfast is kindly sponsored by Markel. Julie Humphreys, Head of Diversity, Inclusion & Community Engagement said “Markel is proud to sponsor this year’s Men’s Mental Health Breakfast. As a committed partner to BIBA and its members, we believe conversations around wellbeing are essential to the strength and resilience of our sector, and we’re dedicated to playing an active role in creating space for them. Supporting initiatives like this reflects our belief that a healthier, more open industry benefits everyone.”
ANDYSMANCLUB was Co-founded by Luke Ambler after the tragic loss of Luke’s brother-in-law. It is a free peer to peer support group for any man aged 18+, with over 340 clubs nationwide. Clubs are held every Monday 7-9pm and nearly 7000 men use their services each week. Luke said “I am privileged to have been invited to speak at The BIBA Conference 2026 and to spread the word about ANDYSMANCLUB and the hope we are creating by providing safe spaces for men to be able to come along, open up and speak with peers in a non-judgmental environment. Can’t wait to see you all on the day!”
The Men’s Mental Health Breakfast at #BIBA2026 will run from 8.30am to 10.15am on Thursday 14 May. The BIBA Conference 2026 – TIME:TO opens at 8:00am on 13 May and will finish at 4pm on 14 May at Manchester Central. Registered attendees can start networking early at the official launch event on 12 May from 3pm to 7pm.
Registration for The BIBA Conference is open and is free to attend for BIBA member brokers and entry to the exhibition and Fringe is free to FCA registered brokers.