I would be very grateful for any tips on organizations designed to help gay people meet/support each other, especially in the Bristol area.
I'm a newcomer to the UK and don't know how to advise a younger colleague who has asked for help. He is the kind of guy who seems to have everything going for him. But a few weeks ago, he broke down when we were working late and told me that he is having a very hard time right now. He has intense work stress, depression, and has just ended a years-long relationship that seems to have been quite exploitative of him. He feels very lonely and would like some gay friends, but is shy. It's hard for him to reach out and he doesn't feel ready to date.
He is making a huge effort to help himself, but work consumes most of his time/energy and the attempts he has made to meet people online haven't gone well. He doesn't know the Bristol area or gay scene very well himself, having been in an isolating relationship for a few years.
Mumsnet is probably the last place I should be looking for help on this particular subject, but I'm hoping that someone out there has a relative or friend who has used certain strategies or organizations to get social. It would be great to be able to point him to a group that attracts men (he is about 30 years old) who are either interested in dating or friendship. Thanks for any advice.