Celebrating the &SONS Community and the Power of Brotherhood

Building a Brotherhood, Not Just a Brand

Over the years, we’ve built more than just a brand; we’ve built a community. A place where men can connect, support each other, and feel part of something bigger. Our Founder, Phil James, has openly shared his own mental health journey, and it’s that honesty and vulnerability that have shaped &SONS into what it is today, a space where men can be themselves.

From the clothes we design to the events we host, every aspect of &SONS is about bringing men together. Over the years, we’ve seen firsthand how powerful it is when guys open up, support one another, and realise they’re not alone.

Our Commitment to Mental Health

Mental health is something we actively champion, not just in words but in action. Through our partnerships with Movember and Heroes & Horses, we’ve raised significant funds to support men’s mental health initiatives. We’ve also hosted events that go beyond style, creating spaces where men can come together, disconnect from the digital noise, and focus on their well-being.

Our first event was the Autumn Social at Soho Farmhouse. Surrounded by the warmth of good company, we invited a guest speaker from Movember to share insights on men’s mental health. It wasn’t just about listening, it was about starting real conversations. Men who had never met before connected over shared experiences, offering support and encouragement to one another. This was the start of something much bigger.

Last year we hosted The Wild Retreat in Cornwall. We left behind the screens, the deadlines, and the distractions, immersing ourselves in nature and community.

The weekend was designed with a purpose: digital detoxing, workshops on mental resilience, and deep discussions led by David Millar from Mantra Menswork. The bonds formed during those few days have lasted long after we packed up and headed home.

Many of the guys who attended didn’t just leave with great memories; they left with a solid support network and friendships that continue to grow.

The Strength of Our Community

The heart of &SONS isn’t just in our events or our partnerships, it’s in the everyday conversations happening within our community. It's become a space where men lift each other up, whether it’s through words of encouragement, personal experiences, or practical advice on handling life’s challenges.

Mark Flynn shared a simple but powerful reminder:
“Be kind to yourselves and maybe set some small goals to aim for. Let's keep cheering each other and championing positive mental health. Get outside and breathe some fresh air—those small things can make a huge difference to your mindset.”

For others, &SONS is more than a brand—it’s a support network:
“&SONS have done something special. Even when I’m not shopping, I check in on my fellow Pioneers.”

Some, like Tim Harrison, have found solace in journaling:
“There is a great deal of evidence to support the benefits of journaling on processing trauma. I like the ceremony of a nicely bound book, a good pen”

While others, like Peter Coleman, offer wisdom from experience:
“If you're new to anxiety & depression, there are millions of us out there who have had many years dealing with it and grown in the face of it all. You're not alone. For me, life is about moving forward—limping in pain maybe, but moving forward. Depression loves a sitting duck. Prove it wrong, challenge it with action, and do good for others, even when you feel like crap. Be Fierce and Keep Going!”

And Salem reminds us of the importance of reaching out:
“Speaking to someone about your mental health or personal troubles takes courage and strength. Often, the signs are there that a friend, loved one, or colleague is trying to ask for help. There shouldn't be a stigma surrounding being kind or asking for help when you need it. Strength, courage and power to everyone.”

Looking Ahead

Mental health isn’t something we talk about once a year, it’s a continuous journey, and we’ll continue to champion men’s mental health, whether it’s through future retreats, partnerships, or simply fostering open and honest dialogue in our community, we want every man to know he’s not alone.

This World Health Day, we celebrate YOU - our community, our brothers, and the incredible strength that comes from supporting one another. Let’s keep checking in, sharing our stories, and lifting each other up.

Because real strength isn’t about going it alone, it’s about standing together.