Men’s health is in crisis — and, for many men, the solutions can feel out of reach. From mental health struggles to social isolation and economic inequality, the factors at play are complex and deeply rooted. At People’s Health Trust, our experience of supporting thousands of grassroots projects over the past 14 years has shown us that change is possible. Community-led approaches have helped improve men’s wellbeing, build confidence, and strengthen connections — often with lasting impact. As the Head of Grant Programmes, I’m fortunate to see every day the examples of what works.
Investing in health where it counts
Through People’s Health Trust’s funding programmes we support community-led organisations across England, Scotland and Wales, operating in those places where men need the most support. We have reached 774,000 people, with nine in ten participants reporting stronger social connections, and two in three experiencing improved mental health and wellbeing.
Real change
Let me bring this to life through two powerful stories that illustrate the transformation made possible by our community partners.
James, Justice Prince – Barriers to Employment
James badly suffered with anxiety and didn’t leave his house for almost a decade. Bullying and panic attacks prevented him from fulfilling his potential at school and he struggled to find work.
With support from Justice Prince’s Barriers to Employment programme, funded by the Trust, James has gone on to be active on the advisory board, a role that is his first job. For James the effects were clear: “It developed my confidence 100 %, it developed my self-esteem 100%.”
By helping James find a sense of purpose, build social connections and learn vital skills for the future, our support enabled him to overcome poor mental health and isolation — and gave him the confidence and skills to take his first steps into employment.
Tyler, Street Factory – Hip-Hop Into The Lights
Like James, Tyler had battled mental health problems and also thirteen years of alcohol addiction. As part of our funding, Tyler found Street Factory, a community hip-hop/dance theatre company in Plymouth where he felt a purpose, a platform for creative expressions and a social network: “I get so much love from people. I’ve never had that. I needed a friend and now I’ve got a family.”
This is a great reminder that men’s health is not only about medical intervention but about creativity, connection and purpose. Tyler’s involvement with Street Factory shows how arts and movement – when combined with peer support and belonging – can shift trajectories of men in crisis.
James and Tyler are just a couple of examples of our work where small steps have made a huge difference.
Join us on the journey
At People’s Health Trust, we believe we can change more lives by bringing together community organisations, businesses and government to promote this urgent issue. To find out more about the difference we’re making, and how businesses can get involved, please get in touch.
Together, we can help create healthier futures for men across Great Britain.
Susan Brown
Susan is People's Health Trust's Head of Grant Programmes
