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The government has launched England’s first-ever Men’s Health Strategy, setting out a comprehensive plan to tackle the physical and mental health challenges facing men and boys. Published by the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) and Health Secretary Wes Streeting, the landmark strategy aims to reduce long-standing health inequalities and improve life expectancy for men across England.

Announced on International Men’s Day, the strategy includes major new commitments on suicide prevention, mental health support, prostate cancer care, and community-based health programmes. Ministers say the plan marks the first coordinated national effort to address the specific barriers that stop men seeking help—barriers often linked to stigma, a lack of awareness, and societal norms.

Major Investment in Suicide Prevention

With suicide remaining one of the leading causes of death for men under 50, the government will invest £3.6 million over three years in suicide-prevention projects focused on middle-aged men. These local initiatives—particularly targeted at deprived communities—will be co-designed with experts and men with lived experience of suicide or mental health crises.

 

The government is also partnering with the Premier League’s Together Against Suicide initiative, working with clubs and the Samaritans to embed mental health support into the matchday experience and link fans more closely with local NHS services.

 

Health Secretary Wes Streeting said men’s health had been “overlooked for too long,” adding: “This strategy marks a turning point—the first time we’re taking comprehensive, co-ordinated action to address the health challenges facing men and boys.”

Improved Care for Men with Prostate Cancer

The strategy promises major improvements in prostate cancer care, including plans—subject to clinical approval—to introduce home PSA testing from 2027. Men undergoing monitoring or treatment will be able to order tests through the NHS App or access local in-person testing.

A Focus on Community and Workplace Health

Other commitments include:

• £3 million for community-based men’s health programmes, targeting groups least likely to use traditional services.

• New men’s health training modules for healthcare professionals.

• Workplace health pilots with EDF Energy to support men in male-dominated industries.

• Enhanced lung disease support for former miners through increased investment in respiratory pathways.

• £200,000 trial of interventions addressing rising cocaine- and alcohol-related cardiovascular deaths in older men.

The strategy also supports the government’s wider mission to narrow the gap in healthy life expectancy between wealthiest and poorest areas.

Sector Leaders Welcome ‘Historic’ Strategy

The strategy has been widely welcomed by health organisations, charities and public health leaders.

Movember CEO Michelle Terry called it “a historic day for men’s health in the UK,” while Samaritans CEO Julie Bentley said making suicide prevention a central focus was “hugely positive.”

Prostate Cancer UK, the British Heart Foundation, the NIHR, Global Action on Men’s Health, and the Local Government Association all praised the strategy for acknowledging the unique health challenges facing men and committing to targeted, evidence-based action.

Implementation and Accountability

A national stakeholder group will oversee the rollout of the strategy, with the government set to publish a progress report within a year. Officials say the strategy is “a call to action” to build a society in which men’s health is prioritised, stigma is reduced, and every man understands that his health matters.

 

Download the Strategy document Men's Health A Strategic Vision For England

 

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