As Men’s Health Week (9–16 June 2025) begins, Sussex marks the occasion with the launch of a ground-breaking collaboration, the Sussex Men’s Mental Health Network. This alliance of more than 40 community, health, education, and voluntary sector organisations aims to transform how men’s mental health is supported across the region.
Why This Network Matters
Men continue to be disproportionately affected by suicide, substance misuse, and untreated mental health concerns. Social stigma, isolation, and traditional ideas of masculinity often prevent men from seeking help — sometimes until it’s too late.
The Sussex Men’s Mental Health Network is stepping in to change that. By working collaboratively across sectors, the network aims to:
- Improve early intervention and access to local support
- Break down stigma around men’s mental health
- Share knowledge and resources
- Promote a compassionate and coordinated approach to care
What’s New: A Central Directory of Support
To help men — and the professionals who support them — find help quickly and easily, the network has created a public directory of all member organisations.
The Sussex Men’s Mental Health Directory lists 50+ services across the county. Whether it’s through peer-led groups, drop-ins, counselling, or crisis support, the network is designed to offer multiple entry points — so men from all backgrounds can access the help they need in a way that works for them.
Access the directory here or download the file using the button below.
Voices from the Community
Mankind, a member of the network, is a local peer support group providing safe spaces for men to meet, talk, and be heard.
Steve, in his 30s, shares:
“Mankind is a place where I feel welcome, safe, listened to. I also have made friends, and we really care for each other. I no longer feel alone.”
Pete, 50, adds:
“Men can open up about their feelings if they feel they have permission to — and they won’t be laughed at, dismissed or judged. Mankind is one of those places.”
Collaboration Is Key
Andrea Potter, VCSE Mental Health Lead with NHS Sussex, explains:
“By establishing the network and working together, we want to challenge outdated stigmas, reach men who are less likely to seek help, and create a stronger, more compassionate framework of support.”
Paul Roskilly, founder of Mankind, adds:
“Being part of this network has helped us connect with other services, learn more about the needs of local men, and identify how we can work together to ensure men get the support they need.”
Join the Movement
The Sussex Men’s Mental Health Network is open to all service providers working with men in Sussex. If your organisation would like to get involved, email MHNetwork@VCSE-MHTransformation.org. Together, we are building a stronger, more connected Sussex where no man struggles alone.
The Urgent Need
Men’s mental health remains a serious concern in the UK. National statistics reveal that:
- Three in four deaths by suicide are men
- Men are less likely to seek support for emotional or psychological distress
- Men in midlife are at the highest risk of suicide, with social isolation being a major contributing factor
- Men from marginalised or underrepresented communities face even greater barriers to accessing support
These numbers reflect the urgent need for targeted, inclusive, and accessible support structures — something this new network is committed to building.
