Men Actually Talking Together (MATT) support group wins prestigious award for tackling mental health stigma

At the Men Actually Talking Together presentation at Rotherham Rugby Club are (from left) Matthew Gulliver, Wayne Martin, LtCol Mac McPherson (High Sheriff of South Yorkshire), Phil Payne, Rob Walker, Tony Clabby, Andrew Wood, Nic Widdison, Danny Hammerton, Simon Davies, Big Rob, Cllr Michael Sylvester and Martin Gabriel. Picture by GARETH SIDDONS

A SUPPORT group which gets men talking about their problems and anxieties has been recognised with an award.

MATT (Men Actually Talking Together) received the High Sheriff of South Yorkshire’s award for its sterling work.

The informal group offers a listening ear and help and advice at its weekly sessions each Tuesday at Rotherham Titans Rugby Club.

Over a cuppa, men can talk in an honest and open way about things they might be reluctant to discuss in the outside world.

Founder Tony Clabby and fellow group organiser Martin Gabriel said more than 30 men had taken part in the last 18 months.

“We encourage men to come along and talk, no matter how trivial or serious the problem,” he said.

“We are not professionals in the field of mental health, but we can listen and help where we can with peer-to-peer support and also point people in the right direction for professional help if needed.”

MATT gets funding from different bodies, including a three-year grant for running costs from Rotherham Clinical Commissioning Group (now part of SY Integrated Care System), administered via Voluntary Action Rotherham.

The group, who also received an early grant from police and crime commissioner Dr Alan Billings through a project run by the Advertiser, sponsor Rotherham Titans rugby player Matt Challinor, who acts as an ambassador.

Meetings last around an hour-and-a-half to two hours, usually with tea and cake — baked by Martin — and occasionally, there are trips and walks.

“Guys leave the sessions in a more positive frame of mind and anonymity is guaranteed,” added Martin.

Members and supporters of MATT gathered at the rugby club last week for the presentation of the award from Mac McPherson, High Sheriff of South Yorkshire.

Guest speaker was TV presenter Mike McCarthy, who spoke about the suicide of his son Ross, the inspiration for his upcoming national project Beacon of Hope.

Among the audience was borough councillor and community champion Michael Bennett-Sylvester.

“It was great to support the guys at MATT getting a High Sheriff’s Award,” said Michael.

“I’m only standing here because of Tony Clabby, Martin Gabriel and the support of the guys on a Tuesday afternoon.”

For more information about MATT, visit the Facebook page @menactuallytalking or email [email protected].

Alternatively, just turn up at one of the meetings at 2pm every Tuesday when you will be assured of a warm welcome.