13 May 2026
I’m incredibly proud to announce that I have become a trustee of Chat on the Mat, a new charity based in Levenmouth, Fife, focused on supporting men’s mental health through judo, sport, and open conversation.
Founded by Callum Woods of Destination Judo, Chat on the Mat was created to tackle an issue that continues to affect thousands of men across Scotland and the UK. Too many men still struggle in silence, often without the support, connection, or environment needed to speak openly about mental health challenges.
That’s where Chat on the Mat is making a genuine difference.
Chat on the Mat is a men’s mental health charity that combines physical activity, conversation, and community support in a relaxed and welcoming environment.
Using judo and sport as the foundation, the programme encourages men to come together, build trust, improve wellbeing, and support each other through shared experiences.
The sessions are designed to remove barriers that many men face when it comes to talking about mental health. Instead of formal or intimidating environments, Chat on the Mat creates natural opportunities for conversation through movement, training, teamwork, and social connection.
The programme includes:
What makes the programme so effective is that the conversations happen organically. Men train together, spend time together, and slowly begin to realise they are not alone in what they are dealing with.
Mental health challenges among men continue to rise, yet many still avoid seeking support due to stigma, isolation, or fear of judgement.
Community-led projects like Chat on the Mat are becoming increasingly important because they meet men where they feel comfortable. Sport has always had the ability to bring people together, and judo in particular creates respect, trust, and camaraderie unlike almost any other activity.
For many participants, simply walking through the door and being around others can be the first positive step.
The early work already being carried out by Chat on the Mat has been incredibly encouraging, with participants benefiting not only from physical activity but from genuine human connection and support.
Men’s mental health is something that is personally very important to me, which is why it is a real privilege to have been asked to help support the governance and future direction of the charity as a trustee.
Using my experience and skillset as a charity chair already, alongside my previous role as Vice Chair of Judo Scotland, I hope I can help support the long-term growth and sustainability of a charity that is already changing lives.
Being involved from the early stages of Chat on the Mat and seeing the passion of everyone involved has been inspiring. The trustees, coaches, volunteers, and providers all share the same goal — creating a space where men can support each other and improve wellbeing through the power of sport and conversation.
I genuinely believe this charity can make a lasting difference within our community and beyond.
Judo has always been about personal development as much as physical ability.
Training regularly can help improve:
At Ultimate Judo, we see these benefits every week across all ages and backgrounds. Chat on the Mat is now helping use those same principles to specifically support men who may be struggling with their mental health.
As the charity continues to grow, support from the local community will play a huge part in helping it reach more men who may need help.
Please support Chat on the Mat by following the charity on social media, sharing its message, and helping raise awareness around men’s mental health.
Sometimes a conversation really can change — or even save — a life.
Chat on the Mat is a men’s mental health charity based in Levenmouth, Fife. The programme uses judo, sport, and conversation to help men improve wellbeing, build connections, and access support in a safe environment.
Judo helps improve mental health by building confidence, reducing stress, improving fitness, creating routine, and encouraging social connection. Training alongside others also helps reduce feelings of isolation.
The programme is designed to support men of all backgrounds and experience levels. You do not need previous judo experience to take part.
Chat on the Mat is based in Levenmouth, Fife, Scotland.
Many men struggle to seek support due to stigma or isolation. Charities like Chat on the Mat create approachable and supportive environments where men feel more comfortable opening up and connecting with others.
Sport can improve both physical and mental wellbeing by reducing stress, increasing confidence, improving social interaction, and creating a sense of purpose and community.
A charity trustee helps guide the governance, decision-making, and future direction of a charity to ensure it achieves its aims and supports the people it serves effectively.
You can support Chat on the Mat by following the charity on social media, sharing its message, volunteering, fundraising, or helping raise awareness around men’s mental health.
