Talk About It Mate

Talk About It Mate is a Salford-based social enterprise that offers creative, peer-led approaches to mental health support. Founded in 2017 by Mike Richard, the organization's mission is to tackle the stigma surrounding mental health, particularly for men, and to make mental well-being as important as physical health.

The Story and Mission

The organization's roots are deeply personal. Founder Mike Richard started Talk About It Mate after experiencing his own struggles with mental health and reaching a crisis point. He realized that a major barrier to seeking help was the lack of accessible, non-judgmental spaces for men to talk about their feelings. This personal journey inspired him to create the very thing he felt was missing: a community where people could connect, share their experiences, and learn from one another in a safe environment.

Talk About It Mate

The core of their mission is to reduce social isolation and promote self-awareness. They operate on the principle of peer support, believing that a person's lived experience has the power to inspire and help others. The organization’s approach is about early intervention, aiming to provide support before a person reaches a crisis point. They focus on providing low-level mental health support and signposting people to other services if needed.

Services and Activities

Talk About It Mate has developed a variety of services to reach different community members. Their services are designed to be accessible, free, and welcoming, with no referrals needed.

• Peer Support Groups: These are the cornerstone of the organization. They run free, weekly groups for men in various locations, such as Eccles Gateway and the Langworthy Cornerstone in Salford. The groups provide a comfortable and welcoming space for people to talk without judgment.
• "Walk About It Mate"🚶‍♂️: This initiative takes group sessions outdoors, combining physical activity with mental health support. These walks provide an opportunity for people to clear their minds, exercise, and talk in a supportive and natural environment.
• Specialized Groups: The organization has expanded to include groups for specific communities, such as women and the LGB community. They've partnered with organizations to facilitate these safe spaces.
• Workplace Training and Workshops: Talk About It Mate also works with businesses and organizations to provide training on mental health, promoting a healthier culture in the workplace.

• Podcasts: To reach a wider audience and provide support to those who might be hesitant to attend a face-to-face group, the founder, Mike Richard, has launched a Talk About It Mate Podcast where he discusses mental health topics.

Connections and Community Impact

Talk About It Mate is deeply embedded in the Greater Manchester community, collaborating with a wide range of partners to extend its reach and impact.

• Manchester United: The organization has partnered with Manchester United to hold events at Old Trafford as part of the club's "Warm Hub" initiative, helping to destigmatize mental health and provide a safe space for the local community during the winter months.
• Local Partnerships: They work closely with local councils and organizations like Salford CVS, Salford Pride, and Salford Integrated Care Partnership to deliver their services and reach different groups.
• Academia: The founder, Mike Richard, is an alumnus of the University of Salford, and the organization has benefited from support from the university's business incubator, Launch@Salford, which has helped them with business knowledge and sustainability.

Talk About It Mate's approach is a grassroots mental health revolution that focuses on community-led, accessible, and compassionate support. By championing peer support and early intervention, the organization is making a significant and positive difference in the lives of people across Greater Manchester.