Group Agreements

Welcome to the Circle.

The Men Spirit gatherings are designed to be safe, non-judgemental spaces where men can drop the armor, share their experiences, and build genuine connection.

To ensure this space remains safe and effective for everyone, all participants and facilitators agree to the following principles. By joining a gathering (face-to-face or online), you are agreeing to uphold these standards.

1. Confidentiality (What is said here, stays here)

The foundation of this space is trust. You agree not to share the identities, personal stories, or experiences of other men outside of this group. You are welcome to share your own insights and what you have learned, but you must never compromise another man's privacy.

The Limits of Confidentiality:

Our facilitators have a duty of care. Confidentiality will only be broken if a facilitator forms a reasonable belief that:

•You are at immediate risk of serious harm to yourself or others.

•A child is at risk of abuse or neglect (under Victorian mandatory reporting laws).

•Disclosure is required by law.

In these rare situations, facilitators will take appropriate action to ensure safety, which may include contacting emergency services or crisis support.

2. We Speak from "I"

When you share, speak from your own lived experience. Use "I" statements (e.g., "I feel," "I experienced") rather than "You should" or "Men always." We are here to share our own truths, not to speak for others or generalise.

3. No Fixing, No Advice-Giving

We are not here to fix each other. Unless a man explicitly asks for feedback or advice, do not offer solutions, diagnose problems, or tell him what he should do. Your role is to listen, hold space, and offer your presence. Often, being truly heard is the most powerful support you can give.

4. Respect and Non-Judgement

This is an inclusive space. Men from all backgrounds, beliefs, and walks of life are welcome here. You agree to listen without interrupting, arguing, or judging. You do not have to agree with another man's perspective, but you must respect his right to share it.

5. Participation is Voluntary

You are entirely in control of your participation. You will never be forced to speak or share if you do not want to. "Passing" when it is your turn to speak is always an acceptable and respected choice.

6. Self-Responsibility

You are responsible for your own emotional and physical wellbeing. If you feel overwhelmed or triggered during a gathering, you are encouraged to take a break, step outside, or let a facilitator know what you need.

Not a Clinical Service:

You acknowledge that this is a peer-supported space, not a clinical mental health service. If you require professional psychological support or are in crisis, please inform a facilitator so they can help connect you with appropriate services, or contact Lifeline (13 11 14).

7. Sober Participation

To ensure a safe and present environment, all men must attend gatherings completely free from the influence of alcohol or recreational drugs. If a facilitator believes a participant is intoxicated, they will be respectfully asked to leave and return another time.

8. No Recording

For online gatherings, recording of any kind (audio, video, or screen-capturing) is strictly prohibited. The Men Spirit will never record a gathering without the explicit prior consent of every single participant.

9. Facilitator Role and Boundaries

Our facilitators are here to guide the structure of the gathering, ensure these agreements are upheld, and maintain the safety of the space. They are not acting as therapists or medical professionals during the circle. You agree to respect the facilitator's guidance, especially if they need to pause a conversation or redirect the group to maintain safety and time boundaries.

By stepping into this circle, you acknowledge these agreements and commit to holding this space with integrity, respect, and responsibility.