The Irish Men’s Sheds Association held their annual conference in Cavan on the 23rd of November 2023.  You can watch the video recording of all the speakers on YouTube at: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL7CPU7TomnqNsRfKMSIuJ-jZyyAwn92q0

The National Mental Health Recovery and Engagement Office is in the process of scoping out and developing processes on how they can value the voluntary input from service users, family members and carers in the design, development and improvement of Mental Health Services.  To help inform this work, you are asked to consider completing their survey at: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/N56J6N8

The key findings from this study reveal the multifaceted barriers some men experience regarding a lack of motivation, a lack of psychological capability, and/or a lack of physical/social opportunity to access support.  Results suggest that many men have sought support, but had negative experiences, and that many others want help but cannot access it. Barriers include prohibitive costs and waiting times; potential costs to identity, autonomy, relationships and future life opportunities; a lack of perceived psychological capability; a lack of belief in the utility of services; and a mistrust of mental health professionals.  Findings suggest the importance of examining the role of gender in male help-seeking behaviours.  Read the journal article at: https://link.springer.com/content/pdf/10.1007/s12144-023-05423-1.pdf

A new research project from Europa Uomo will attempt to capture the experiences of those closest to men with prostate cancer, identify the issues affecting them, and set an agenda for action to support them.  The study centres upon an online survey for spouses, partners and caregivers, asking simple questions about how their partner’s prostate cancer has affected them.  The survey is available in 17 languages.  You can find out more and access it at: http://tinyurl.com/35h767a3

To celebrate International Men’s Day 2023, HSE Health and Wellbeing - in partnership with the Men's Health Forum in Ireland, the Men's Development Network and SETU - has organised a webinar on the theme of 'Men Making a Difference'.  At this event (on Thursday 16th November 2023, from Noon until 1.15pm), a wide range of men from across the island of Ireland will share their experience of what prompted them to become advocates for working with and supporting the health and wellbeing of males.  Register for a free place at: https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_SmLEaqkWTkykQF0ENUUSlg#/registration

Monday 14th August 2023 saw the publication of an article in the Sociology of Health and Illness Journal titled: 'Men’s Health in Northern Ireland: Why do we need a men’s health policy?'  It was written by Erin Early and Paula Devine from the School of Social Sciences, Education and Social Work within Queen’s University Belfast.  Check it out at: https://doi.org/10.1111/1467-9566.13697

The Southern Area Men's Health Group invites you to their free annual seminar, which will take place on Friday 17th November 2023, from 9.30am to 2.00pm, in Lough Neagh Discovery Centre, Craigavon, Co. Armagh.  This year's event is titled 'Worth the Risk', and will focus upon men and risk taking.  The special guest speaker is Mount Everest climber and international adventurer, Richard Dougan, and the seminar also includes workshops, interactive activities and will finish with a hot lunch.  Numbers are limited, so please register your attendance as soon as possible with Donna in YouthAction NI by Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or Tel: 02837 511624.

There’s no denying that the state of men’s health on the island of Ireland is often poor.  However, there are things which can be done to change this situation and men, themselves, can play a key role in doing this.  ‘Action Man - ten top tips for men’s health’ is a new, free, Man Manual being distributed by the Men’s Health Forum in Ireland   It was launched to mark Men’s Health Week 2023, but was so popular that it is being re-printed for International Men’s Day, which takes place on the 19th of November 2023.

This booklet doesn't preach or lecture - it simply explains: (i) WHY an action is needed; (ii) WHAT can be done about it; and (iii) HOW to find support if you need it.  Thus, the ten top tips put men into the driving seat, and give men the tools and DIY instructions they need to make positive changes - if they choose to be their own ‘Action Man’.

The Man Manual will be available in both hard copy and in electronic format.  To order hard copies, send an email to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.stating:

-  How many copies you would like.
-  The name of the person to send them to.
-  The full postal address (including a Postcode / Eircode) for delivery
-  A contact phone number (in case there is a problem with the delivery).

The online version can be downloaded at: https://mhfi.org/ActionMan2023.pdf

The re-printing of this booklet has only been possible because of the generous support given by Healthy Ireland within the Department of Health.  However, please note that this is a limited print run and, when the hard copies are gone, they’re gone!