Why Focus on Male Mental Health?
In the UK, men are significantly more likely than women to die by suicide, representing around three-quarters of suicide cases. Men are also less likely to seek professional help, making tailored mental health interventions essential. At North Somerset Council, our Public Health Team is dedicated to understanding the unique challenges faced by men to provide effective, accessible support tailored specifically to their needs.
Our Collaborative Approach
Male Health Group
Since 2019, our Male Health Group has brought together over 75 local organisations—including NHS providers, charities, community groups, and businesses—to advocate, advise, and innovate for improved male mental health outcomes. This collaborative platform promotes sharing insights, coordinating efforts, and shaping strategic policy that benefits men across our communities.
The Male Health Group has already achieved significant successes, such as supporting the establishment of Talk Club sessions, positively impacting hundreds of local men.
Male Health Action Circle
Our Action Circle is a focused subgroup from the broader Male Health Group, actively co-producing practical solutions. The Action Circle is committed to turning strategic insights into tangible actions through regular meetings, proactive project delivery, and targeted community engagement.
Meet Our Action Circle Members
Talk Club
Talk Club offers free peer-to-peer support groups for men over 18, providing safe spaces to discuss mental health openly. Sessions begin simply with the question, “How are you out of 10?”, encouraging honest and supportive conversations.
Vita Health Group (NHS Talking Therapies)
Vita Health Group provides free NHS psychological therapies, including CBT, counselling, and guided self-help, tailored for issues like anxiety and depression. Men can self-refer directly for professional, confidential support.
Sirona Care & Health
Sirona offers community-based health services, ensuring men facing isolation or mental distress receive timely, integrated support from healthcare professionals across North Somerset.
North Somerset LGBT+ Forum
The North Somerset LGBT+ Forum supports local LGBT+ communities through inclusive activities and advocacy, actively addressing mental health challenges caused by stigma and isolation.
WithYou North Somerset
WithYou provides confidential support addressing substance misuse and associated mental health issues, delivering individualised care through counselling, group support, and clinical interventions.
Supporting Strategic Alignment
Our initiatives align closely with the following strategic plans:
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England’s upcoming National Men’s Health Strategy: Focusing on tailored interventions to improve men’s health.
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North Somerset Joint Health and Wellbeing Strategy: Emphasising reducing health inequalities and enhancing wellbeing.
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North Somerset Mental Health and Wellbeing Strategy (2024–2029): Prioritising targeted mental health actions and early interventions.
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North Somerset Male Mental Health Action Plan: Setting strategic, evidence-based goals and accountability for local improvements.