A bus driver from Oxford is helping reshape conversations around mental health in the city through a growing community support group focused on connection, activity and openness.
Oxford Bus Company driver Rhys Smith, 30, from Blackbird Leys, launched Men’s Minds with his brother Aaron in September after seeing the impact mental health struggles had on people close to them.
Since then, the group has steadily grown, offering community sessions every other Friday and football kickabouts every other Saturday at Leys Pools and Leisure Centre.
Men’s Minds now has around 15 regular attendees and Rhys hopes to build on the momentum generated during Mental Health Awareness Week.
Rhys, who joined Oxford Bus Company in June 2024, said his motivation came from a desire to provide something different from traditional support services.
“I’ve got a personal connection to this issue, as there’s a family history when it comes to mental health,” he said.
“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.”
Rhys said the initiative was especially important in Blackbird Leys and Greater Leys, where he believes communities face significant mental health challenges.
“We began putting posters, leaflets and banners up in gyms, barbers and shops, and it’s been growing since,” he said.
“I didn’t really know what to expect when I started this journey, as there’s nothing really like it locally, but it’s been quite overwhelming.
“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.”
As part of the group’s activities, members recently climbed Mount Snowdon, the highest mountain in Wales.
Rhys described the experience as both physically and emotionally rewarding.
“It was by no means an easy task, but we all made it to the top,” he said.
“There were a few challenging moments along the way, however we supported one another throughout and remained committed to not leaving anyone behind.”
Luke Marion praised Rhys for the impact he is having within the local community.
“We’re incredibly proud of Rhys for the way he is tackling one of society’s biggest issues,” he said.
“Mental health is something the business takes 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.”
