News

Masculinities and Men’s Health

Developing a solid understanding of masculinities is crucial to improving the health of men and boys.

You are invited to a free one hour webinar which will explore how masculinities impact upon the health of farmers in Ireland.  This will take place on Tuesday 26th April 2022 at Noon, and will offer information and insights from practitioners and researchers - with a key focus upon the 'Farmers Have Hearts' cardiovascular health programme.

This webinar is the first in a four​-part series looking at masculinities and men’s health which has been planned for 2022.  Register at: https://ims.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_LrEnxkFgQPORjPbSKbqdDw

Hello, How Are You?

Thursday 7th April 2022 is Ireland's first national 'Hello, How Are You?' day - focusing upon connection and open conversations about mental health.  On this day, individuals, communities, workplaces, friends and family are encouraged to say 'Hello' to each other and ask ‘How Are You?’ in a meaningful way.  Asking this small question, and having one conversation, can make a real difference to someone’s life.  Creating, maintaining and staying connected with others helps tackle loneliness, creates a sense of belonging and purpose, and builds relationships.  You don’t need to be an expert to have a meaningful conversation.  Visit https://hellohowareyou.info for more information.

Just for Dads

'Just for Dads' is an 8 week programme aimed solely at men, which offers an opportunity for fathers to explore their relationships with their children and how important they are to their children’s development.   It is a strengths-based, peer learning, programme which is underpinned by the following principles: dads are their child’s first male role model and are very important in their child’s life; while fatherhood is important, it can sometimes be difficult and challenging; there is a need to help dads to strengthen their resilience and build self-esteem; fathers need a safe space to come together to support and learn from each other.  The programme will take place weekly, from Tuesday 26th April - Tuesday 14th June 2022, in IRD Duhallow, Co. Cork.  Each session will run from 7.00pm - 8.30pm.  For further information, contact Majella Canty on 029 60633 or Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Men and Bereavement Podcast

This podcast by 'Meath Talks' explores the impact bereavement has on men and how societal messages about masculinity can sometimes hinder a man’s journey through the natural cycles of grief and loss.  It discusses some of things men can do to help them express their emotions in a healthy and safe way as they adapt to living with a loss.  The special guests on this podcast are Angela Farrelly (SICAP Projects Officer with Meath Partnership) and Finian Murray (HSE Senior Health Promotion Officer specialising in men’s health).  Listen in at: https://www.podbean.com/media/share/pb-ddusv-11ac7ae

Calling Men in Meath, Kildare, Wicklow and Westmeath

Are you interested in a day out in late May - for a short walk in Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands plus lunch / talk / banter (with some nice weather hopefully!) - and all paid for?  A group working and researching in TU Dublin is interested in finding out from men (over 65 years of age) about their attitude and approach to physical activity and how it impacts on their mental, physical and social wellbeing.  They are also keen to find out how COVID has impacted on men’s approach to physical activity.  Information will be collected through a survey, some informal interviews and focus groups.  However, it will all be recorded anonymously (you will be assigned a code).  If there is a group of you, the TU Dublin team can even transport you there as well.  Numbers are limited, so if you or a group of you are interested, please email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.  or call 01 2205789 by 6th April 2022.

Economic Evaluation of ‘Sheds for Life’

Men’s Sheds attract a diverse cohort of men and, as such, have been identified as spaces with the potential to engage marginalised sub-populations with more structured health promotion.  ‘Sheds for Life’ is a 10-week men’s health initiative in Ireland.  When operating in an environment where budgets are limited, an economic evaluation is critical to determine cost-effectiveness and sustainability.  The findings from this study highlight that Sheds for Life is a cost-effective initiative that effectively engages with, and enhances the well-being of, Shed members.  Read all about it at: https://www.mdpi.com/1660-4601/19/4/2204/htm