Creative films showcase positive impact of mental health support for men in Kirklees

Men’s Talk Digital premiered a series of short films showcasing the positive impact of mental health support services available to men living in Kirklees. Held at Connect Housing, Dewsbury, it was hosted by Kirklees Council and CLEAR Men’s Talk, a creative advocacy project for men who have experienced mental health issues and uses applied theatre and filmmaking to signpost support and encourage men to talk.

Men’s Talk Digital premiered a series of short films showcasing the positive impact of mental health support services available to men living in Kirklees.

Held at Connect Housing, Dewsbury, it was hosted by Kirklees Council and CLEAR Men’s Talk, a creative advocacy project for men who have experienced mental health issues and uses applied theatre and filmmaking to signpost support and encourage men to talk.

Commissioned by Kirklees Public Health, the project, IN Focus, showcased films featuring men from support groups including Andy’s Man Club, Luke’s Lads and Platform 1 – speaking openly about their own issues, how they got involved with the projects and what keeps them coming back.

Councillor Musarrat Khan said: “It was an honour to speak at the Men’s Talk Digital event, especially as it’s one led by people with lived experiences. Suicide rates in Kirklees are highest amongst men, and we have a long-term focus to reduce those numbers. That’s why, with a co-ordinated approach from the Kirklees Suicide Prevention Action Group (SPAG) we aim to work collaboratively with organisations across the board, to identify any gaps and improve provision for men’s well-being across Kirklees.”

The Kirklees’ Suicide Prevention Action Group, a multi-agency group including public health, housing commissioners, NHS and a range of voluntary sector organisations including Men’s Talk established a men’s mental health workstream to help identify gaps in wellbeing support for men, improve provision and ultimately reduce the numbers of people taking their own life by suicide. 

If you or someone you know needs support for their mental health, visit our dedicated mental health pages www.kirklees.gov.uk/menatlhealth.