Register to join the online launch of a new Baring Foundation report asking why comparatively few older men take up creative opportunities.  This will take place on Tuesday 20th January 2026 at 2.00pm.  Find out more at: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/missing-out-creative-ageing-and-men-tickets-1975823482223

The spunout Academy is a free online learning space that helps young people build knowledge and skills that support their mental health and emotional wellbeing.  The academy contains a collection of interactive learning courses designed to build knowledge, understanding and skills that help learners cope with a range of social, environmental and personal issues that can impact their mental health.  Courses are designed in bite-sized building blocks, so learners can pick them up, put them down and learn at their own pace.  Find out more at: https://spunout.ie/academy

The Department of Health (in the Republic of Ireland) has asked the Institute of Public Health to carry out focus groups on the subject of Universal Health Coverage to help inform their work in this area.  Participants are, currently, being sought for these focus groups.  Find out how you can have your say at: https://instituteofpublichealth.org/uhc

This annual publication (released on the 9th of December 2025) presents the latest estimates of life expectancy, healthy life expectancy and disability-free life expectancy.  The report explores the extent to which mortality within certain age groups and causes of death contribute to the observed variations in life expectancy over time, in addition to inequality gaps between sexes, deprivation levels, Health and Social Care Trusts and Local Government Districts.  Download a copy at: https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/publications/life-expectancy-northern-ireland-2022-24

The 6th Annual National Grief Awareness Week will take place from 26th January - 1st February 2026.  During this period, the Irish Hospice Foundation will be hosting online events and running a social media campaign to raise awareness about grief and the supports and services available for those who feel they would benefit from support.  Find out more at: https://tinyurl.com/bdd5p496

You are invited to register for a place on a new and exciting 10 week Men’s Health and Lifestyle Programme.  This will commence on Wednesday 7th January 2026, at 6.00pm, in Gilford Community Centre, Banbridge, Co. Down.  In addition to weekly health information awareness talks and workshops, the programme will consist of weekly physical activity sessions - with a dedicated coach to help you get the most from the programme.  Numbers are limited.  So, if you're interested in taking part, call Frances on 07500 772905 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year from everyone in the Men's Health Forum in Ireland!  However, we also know that the holidays can often be a stressful and worrying time for many people.  Therefore, please remember that if you - or anyone you know - needs help and support over the Christmas period, you can always contact ...

-  The Samaritans (all Ireland) - Freephone 116 123
-  Pieta House (RoI) - Freephone 1800 247 247
-  Lifeline (NI) - Freephone 0808 808 8000

or visit: https://www2.hse.ie/mental-health | https://www.mindingyourhead.info

To mark International Men’s Day (19th November), we would like to share some of the images and stories from the very successful Men’s Health Week 2025 activities that took place in the HSE West region.  Watch the short video below or find out even more by visiting: https://youtu.be/N28XEHwcHlo

During this week, there was wonderful collaboration across many agencies and partners, and we would like to extend our very sincere thanks to everybody involved.  It might only be International Men’s Day 2025, but planning is already underway for Men’s Health Week next year, and we hope to make this an even bigger and better week in 2026.