This interim report explores how community-led, non-clinical programmes can support men’s mental health and wellbeing and contribute to suicide prevention.
Published by the Centre for Policy Research on Men and Boys, with support from the Randal Foundation, it examines what makes these programmes effective and how they could be strengthened or expanded without losing the qualities that encourage men to take part.
Why community-based support for men matters
Men experience disproportionately high levels of suicide, poor mental health and social isolation. However, the level of risk varies between different places and communities.
Men’s distress can be linked to factors including:
- loneliness and social isolation
- debt and financial pressures
- unemployment or difficulties at work
- relationship breakdown
- gambling or substance use
- a loss of identity, connection or purpose.
Some men do not seek help through formal health services until their difficulties have become more serious. Others may face barriers such as stigma, waiting lists, diagnostic thresholds or a feeling that existing services are not designed for them.
What are male community-based programmes?
Community-led programmes offer an informal and accessible route into support. They can include men’s groups, walking clubs, workshops, peer support networks, sports sessions and other shared activities.
Men can often take part without needing a diagnosis, referral or immediate conversation about their mental health. Instead, the programmes create opportunities to build relationships and talk when they feel ready.
The report identifies several qualities that can make these programmes effective:
- a shared sense of purpose
- familiar activities and regular routines
- trust and mutual respect
- a welcoming, non-judgemental environment
- opportunities for participants to contribute
- consistent support over time.
Mapping support across England
The research includes an England-wide mapping exercise, which identified 2,082 visible community-led, non-clinical interventions supporting men.
However, this provision is unevenly distributed and does not always match local levels of suicide or deprivation. Some places with greater apparent need have relatively little visible support, while others have developed stronger community networks.
The report notes that the mapping is not a complete register. Smaller or more informal groups may have little online presence and could therefore be more difficult to identify.
Challenges facing community organisations
Funding routes can be short term, unclear and difficult for smaller organisations to navigate. Founders and volunteers may also need help with leadership, governance, safeguarding and data management.
However, the report warns that overly complex reporting requirements, clinical language, formal referrals or prominent institutional branding could change how these groups feel to the men using them. This could weaken the informal, trusted environment that encourages people to attend.
Measuring the impact on men’s wellbeing
The report recommends looking beyond conventional clinical outcomes when assessing the impact of community programmes.
Meaningful measures could include reduced isolation, stronger social connections, renewed purpose, increased willingness to seek help and improved routes into further support. Outcomes should be proportionate and developed with the organisations involved.
Next steps for the research
The next phase will refine the national mapping and carry out more detailed research with selected organisations. It will also develop a practical outcomes framework and recommendations for government, NHS commissioners, regional partners and funders.
The overall aim is to strengthen community-based support for men as part of a wider approach to prevention, while protecting the local, informal and trusted qualities that make these programmes valuable.
Read the full report