Men’s Health Week – check out what Hampshire’s Men’s Activity Network could do for you

This Men’s Health Week (15-21 June), Hampshire County Council is encouraging men to consider the benefits of joining a men’s group to connect with others for better mental and physical health during COVID-19 and beyond.  Hampshire’s Men’s Activity Network consists of 20 men’s groups across the county which offer a range of activities including online training courses, one-to-one mentoring sessions and fortnightly virtual networking sessions to share ideas and provide mutual support.

Councillor Judith Grajewski, Executive Member for Public Health at Hampshire County Council, said, “We would like to encourage all people to seek support and take actions to improve their mental and emotional health. Men’s Health Week is a great opportunity for men in particular to help themselves and others. The Men’s Activity Network connects men with each other through shared interests and is currently reaching out for members. With the challenges and isolation of COVID-19, it’s an ideal time to join up and connect with like-minded individuals.”

The Men’s Activity Network is promoting a free online training session on Thursday 18 June, for any community organisation that would like to learn how to reach out and engage more successfully with men locally. The practical workshop includes a digital toolkit to help organisations attract new members. Email [email protected] for details.

In addition, the Network is keen to recruit existing community organisations. Benefits of membership include training, information and guidance on running a group and potential access to funding. They are also keen to hear from men who would like to set up a group from scratch. Anyone who feels inspired following lockdown to do more for their community, or who has identified a need in their community for mutual support, is invited to get in touch.