Let's Get Men Talking in Sandwell
A big thank you to all of the men who featured in our ‘You ok, mate?’ campaign. Each one brings their own unique story, experiences and advice. Have a read:
💬 Lads – you matter, you are loved and support is here if you need it.
Every like, share and comment on our ‘You ok, mate?’ campaign over the past few weeks has helped spread awareness and support to the people who might need it most 
We hope you’ve enjoyed hearing from local men and found new ways to look after your own wellbeing, or how to check in on a mate who might be struggling. If you missed any of their stories, you can catch them all on our website (details in the comments below).
We’d also like to give a big shoutout to every local man who has featured in the campaign. Your honesty, shared experiences and advice has inspired conversations and shone a light on men’s mental health across Sandwell 
Mukith, Smethwick
Mukith in his own words:
“We often think of mental health as something distant, an issue for someone else. But let me ask you to look around you. Imagine your friends, your colleagues, your family. For every eight men you know, at least one is battling a common mental health problem like anxiety or depression.
“If you look at data or men’s mental health surveys they reveal an even more staggering truth: three-quarters of men have experienced these very struggles. This isn’t a minority issue; it’s a shared battle, fought in silence by far too many.
“So, why are we men, so quiet? Why are we men, afraid to speak up? It’s a question rooted in outdated ideas of what it means to be a man. We are told to be strong, to be tough, to “man up.” But this pressure is literally killing us. The numbers don’t lie: men are three times more likely to die by suicide than women. This is the tragic price of silence.
Breaking the Silence
“But here is my message for you today: we have the power to change this. We are not defined by the silence. We are defined by our courage, our compassion, and our willingness to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with our mates.
“This is a call to action. Let’s change “you okay mate?” from a casual question into a genuine invitation. Let’s create a culture where talking about our emotions isn’t seen as weakness, but as the ultimate act of strength. Let’s build a future where no man has to fight this battle alone.”
Ian, Tipton
Your life matters. Your feelings matter. You matter. Talking can save lives. We’re with you.
Chris, Rowley Regis
New dads struggle too
Bottling up feelings can make things harder Reaching out for support can change everything
Meet Chris, a Father’s and Male Carer’s Engagement Worker for Barnardo’s at Sandwell Family Hubs in Rowley Regis. Chris bravely opens up about his experience with post-natal depression after the birth of his daughter:
“At first, I bottled up my feelings. I felt guilty for struggling, especially after seeing my partner go through the physical challenges of pregnancy and childbirth.”
6 months later, Chris reached out for help, through speaking to his partner about his feelings who then put him in touch with Talking Therapies at Black Country Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust. Speaking to someone he didn’t know gave him comfort and the support he needed to move forwards. Eventually, he shared how he was feeling with close friends and family too – and their response was just what he needed to hear.
Zubier, Smethwick
Zubier is one of the youngest men to feature in our ‘You Ok, Mate?’ campaign, reminding us that anyone can have dark times, no matter what your age is. He tells us how he’s a good listening ear for his friends and if they need his advice or support, they get out and about for a change of scenery, and that can often help people feel more relaxed and help them get things off their chest.
Connor, Tipton
It’s ok not to be ok. Be yourself and be kind to yourself.
If you’re struggling, talk.
If you’re worried about a mate, check in. Meet Connor, from Tipton. Connor tells us how men carry so much on their shoulders, but carrying it alone can be deadly. Even the loudest man in the room might be struggling.
Rudy, Smethwick
It’s ok to:
Cry Admit you’re struggling Ask for help Put yourself first Meet Rudy, an electrician from Smethwick. Rudy tells us how important it is to prioritise your mental health as much as your physical health and how we should all be checking in on our mates.
Karl, Rowley Regis
“I learn from my kids all the time. They can see things from different perspectives.”
Meet Karl Blick, a dedicated Play Worker at Active Bodies 4 Focused Minds and a passionate volunteer Rugby Coach at Warley RFC.
For Karl, volunteering is more than just giving time – it’s about giving back to the community and creating opportunities for others to grow, improve their skills and build their confidence. Karl also believes strongly in the power of talking about problems and sharing issues. Karl says he’s also learned a lot from his own children, who often help him see challenges from different angles and remind him of the importance of perspective. And as a coach, he champions sport as a positive way to boost mental health – bringing people together, encouraging resilience, and building a sense of belonging.
Lez, Tipton
Tattooed, tough but human – a reminder to never judge a book by its cover.
Lez Sharratt is a former professional boxer who now runs Golden gloves school of boxing in Rowley Regis. For Lez, the ring has always been more than a place to fight – it’s where he clears his head and blows away the worries of the day. Lez says: “Even the strongest-looking lads carry battles of their own. Sometimes, the greatest strength is finding the courage to let it out. Men try to be big and brave. You haven’t always got to be that way. Exercise is such a good way to help manage your mind.”
He now teaches both children and adults that boxing isn’t just about throwing punches, it’s about building fitness, discipline, and balance to help keep your mind in a good place.
Kyle, Wednesbury
Nobody needs to suffer alone
Everyone faces challenges
Reaching out for support can make a real difference Meet Kyle, an ICT engineer at Sandwell Council. Kyle tells us that the closeness and support of his family help him navigate difficult moments.
If you’re feeling down, lost, or just need someone to talk to, reaching out can make all the difference – whether that’s with family, friends, or local services who are always ready to listen. You don’t have to face tricky times on your own
Jed, West Bromwich Albion
Baggies skipper Jed Wallace is backing our ‘You ok, mate?’ campaign – reminding lads that men’s mental health matters.
Being part of a team doesn’t stop at the final whistle. Tackle the tough stuff, kick off those conversations. Jed says: “We want your support in the stands, but don’t forget to check in with your mates too – they need your support as much as we do. If you’re struggling, reach out. Talking about your mental health is just as important as talking about the score line. Look out for each other, on and off the pitch.”
Craig, West Bromwich
Playing for England Deaf Rugby Union was a huge passion for Craig who is now a Wellbeing Coach at Sandwell Deaf Community Association. Craig said: “When I was younger, I was really into sport. Football was tough because my teammates found it hard to communicate with me – but everything changed when I joined a rugby team. They made the effort to include me, helped me build my skills, and soon I was invited to play for England Deaf Rugby, earning 8 caps. For the first time, I felt a true sense of belonging — and I loved every moment.”
Luke, Oldbury
A problem shared is a problem halved.
Earlier this year, Councillor Luke Cotterill took on the six-park, three-day walking challenge to raise awareness for men’s mental health. Luke said: “As the Council’s Performance Champion for Healthy Sandwell, and through my work at Citizens Advice Birmingham, I see every day how much a simple conversation can help. Don’t wait – check in with someone, or reach out yourself. You’re not alone.”
Coree, Tipton
Banter and exercise at MAN v FAT keeps me smiling
Journaling helps me reflect and reduce stress
Meet Coree – Engagement Executive at West Midlands Combined Authority.
Coree plays football as part of a weight loss health and fitness footie program for men looking to get fit, lose weight and build a supportive community.
Coree tells us how small habits can make a big difference for men’s mental health. Connecting with friends, staying active and taking time for yourself really can make a difference.
Joseph, West Bromwich
There’s no shame in asking for help
You’re never alone, so many others are going through the same thing Meet Joseph, branch manager at NatWest in West Bromwich.
Joseph shares how a few big turning points completely changed his perspective – taking him from a carefree teenager to a young man who realised he needed support. He first opened up to his parents, and with the help of his GP, he was able to find his feet again.
Gary, Smethwick
Give way to someone on the road Tell someone they look great
Smiling is contagious Meet Gary — a proud Smethwick local who’s dedicated years of service to West Midlands Police. Also a mentor, Gary is passionate about supporting others. He reminds us how vital it is to reach out, show people around us that we care, and how small acts of kindness can go a long way.
If you or someone you know is facing a tough time, please don’t hesitate to reach out. By supporting each other and starting conversations, we can break barriers, end the silence, and make sure no one has to face their challenges alone. Together, we can build a stronger, more caring community.
Pastor Stephen, Tividale
Say “I’m struggling” when you are Say “I’m here” when someone else isPastor Stephen reminds us that real strength isn’t found in silence – it’s in vulnerability.
For the past six years, Stephen has served as a pastor at Oakham Church in Tividale, creating a space where people feel seen, heard, and safe to share what’s really on their mind.
Whatever your religion or background, if things are getting heavy, speak to someone. You don’t have to face it alone — reaching out is a sign of courage, not weakness.
Danté, Great Barr
Bad day at work, tough time at uni, whatever it is, get it off your chest. You’ll feel better afterwards.
Sarbjit, Smethwick
Let’s remember to check in on the men in our lives. 
Text a friend, a brother, a son, a dad, an uncle. Just let them know they’ve crossed your mind. Sometimes, it’s the smallest gesture that can bring the biggest lift 
For Sarbjit, those small moments of connection make a big difference. Between managing his busy job at a local bakery and his voluntary role as a Trustee at Guru Nanak Gurdwara Smethwick, Sarbjit understands the importance of looking after not just others, but also yourself.In his role at the Gurdwara, he helps oversee finance, estates, and maintenance – work that keeps the community running smoothly
. But it’s those human moments, like a simple message from a friend, that keep the spirit strong 
.
Liam, Wednesbury
Meet Liam, a firefighter based at Wednesbury Fire Station.
Being a firefighter teaches you the value of teamwork and looking out for each other – lessons that matter just as much in everyday life.Liam says: “Men often feel pressure to stay ‘tough,’ and because of this, it can be hard to speak up when you’re struggling.
“It takes genuine courage to talk openly about mental health. Having those sometimes uncomfortable conversations with friends can make a powerful difference, reminding them they’re not alone. I’ve found that sharing my own experiences often encourages others to open up too.”
Chris, Oldbury
Bringing people together through kindness A little effort can make a big difference Meet Chris Flood, Centre Manager at Sandwell Irish Community Association in Langley, Oldbury. Chris has devoted many years to making a real difference to local people and those who need his help.
Chris believes that volunteering is one of the best things you can do for your mental health. For him, it’s all about connection – bringing people together and sharing your passion with others. He knows that even a small act of kindness can have a massive impact on someone else’s life. His motto is simple but powerful: treat people the way you want to be treated 
The Sandwell Irish Community Association offers a wide range of support to organisations, groups and individuals, focusing on health and wellbeing within the Irish community and the wider Sandwell area. The centre runs classes, clubs and activities for all ages – helping people stay active, connected and happy
Qasim, Smethwick
Meet Qasim – a passionate member of Steppingstones In The Community, a volunteer-led organisation in Smethwick.
Qasim demonstrates the value of friendship, nature, and honest conversations for mental health. He proves that being brave isn’t about hiding struggles – it’s about speaking up and supporting one another.
Abdul, Smethwick
“Men don’t want to look weak or like they are in need. Sometimes we hold things in, but often it’s best to ask for help and not carry our problems alone.” Meet Abdul, (CEO) at Bangladeshi Islamic Centre (BIC) in Smethwick.Abdul is committed to supporting his community with compassion and understanding. He believes in the importance of open conversation and emotional well-being.
Abdul encourages us to prioritise our mental health, seek support when needed, and remember that strength also comes from acknowledging our vulnerabilities.BIC offers advice, health programmes, women’s development, youth programs, employment support, play schemes, ESOL courses, and much more to help support their local community.