Men’s Talk

"Men's Talk" a 35-minute performance created with and performed by men with lived experience of mental health issues.

Following a successful launch in March 2023 – the men have delivered over 30 performances to a wide range of audiences across the region. Venues have included theatres, universities, community venues, work-places and conferences.

"Men's Talk" requires a performance space of 5mx3m and an audience. Please note that the piece contains adult themes relating to suicide and self-harm.

For further information: stuart.hawkes@inspirenorth.co.uk

Men’s Talk Performances

Men’s Talk Digital (MT Digital) 

This is CLEAR’s film-making project for men who have experienced mental health issues.

MT Digital uses digital media to create short films that aim to reduce stigma and encourage debate around men’s mental health and to signpost other men to local mental health services.

As well as making their own films – MT Digital undertakes commissioned work – providing services to third sector organisations, local authorities and the wider Inspire North group.

Supported by Creative Frame CIC – MT Digital provides participants with training, equipment and support.

Commissions have included Kirklees Council, Leeds Mind and Calderdale NHS.

NEWS

Men's Talk short-listed for National Award

Clear, Inspire North’s well-being service in Kirklees, are pleased to announce that their Men’s Talk project has been shortlisted by the Association of Male Well-being, for the Campaign of the Year Award 2025.

Nominated by Forum Central in Leeds, Clear Men’s Talk is one of a number of initiatives which will be celebrated later this month at the National Men and Boys Awards Ceremony in London, which is supported, this year, by Movember.

The shortlist has been published to coincide with international Men’s Day, 19th November.

“Men’s Talk” is a 35-minute long theatre performance created with and performed by men who have lived experienced of mental health issues. The play has been seen by more than 700 people since it began touring across the north of England in 2023.

Clear Service Manager Krista Bagnell commented:

“We are incredibly proud of the Men’s Talk team and the bravery they show every time they share their stories. Seeing audiences connect with the performance reminds us why this work matters — it opens doors for men to speak openly and seek support.”

Project Lead, Stuart Hawkes explained, “75% of suicides involve men, however, men remain, often unwilling, to seek the support that they need. “Men’s Talk” aims to raise awareness about the struggles that men face and encourage them to talk about their own mental health.”

Ruth Kettle, CEO Inspire North said:

“Men’s Talk is fundamentally a story of hope, a unique way of engaging with men and our communities to show that no matter how bad things get, if you can reach out for support things can get better, you can re-connect with yourself and others and find strengths and talents within yourself that you never knew you had.

Too many lives are lost to suicide, and we hope that through this work, we can reach as many people as possible to share our message of hope”

Men’s Talk has not only been of benefit to audiences, but to those involved in the performances. David Crabb, a member of the cast explained: ““Men’s Talk is all about engaging in doing work as a cohesive group. Unlike individual therapies Men’s Talk relies on you being a team player and supporting each other”

Men’s Talk are currently in the process of creating a new performance which will premiere spring 2026. Clear and Men’s Talk are commissioned by Kirklees Council.

Devising Week

“A week of your life that you won’t get back” – Client Information

“A week of your life that you won’t get back” is a week-long theatre project beginning the process of creating a new performance piece that will tour in the spring of 2026.

The piece will focus on men’s experiences of physical and mental health – exploring how one impacts on the other, what help and support they have had and what they need.

When?

Mon 20th- Fri 24th October

Where?

Proper Job Theatre, Top Floor, Byram Arcade, Huddersfield

What time?

10am-3pm each day

What will I be doing?

We start each day with a bit of gentle exercise, we’ll play some games, we’ll get to know each other, we’ll have a laugh…and a lunch break (food is not provided)

What if I’ve never done anything like this before?

It doesn’t matter, everyone is welcome…most of the men who have been involved had never been on stage before!

I’m not sure I want to go on stage!

At this stage there is no commitment to perform. “A week of your life that you won’t get back”, focusses on building your confidence and performance skills. It’s an opportunity for you to share your experiences and suggestions about how we make things better.

I’m not really sure that it’s for me?

Check out our web site - https://www.inspirenorth.co.uk/our-services/get-help-and-support-page/mens-talk/

or our Facebook page to find out more - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100082411594145

or give Stuart a call on 07391 868752 email stuart.hawkes@inspirenorth.co.uk

What if I can’t come every day?

Although you will benefit most from committing to the whole week, we understand that this might not be possible. Don’t let this stop you from giving it a go!

What if I don’t like it?

..it’s a week of your life that you won’t get back!

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