Community and voluntary sector organisations across Knowsley are being encouraged to apply for a share of a new £6.3 million fund aimed at improving the physical and mental health of men and boys aged 16 and over.
The Men’s Health Community Fund, announced alongside the Government’s Men’s Health Strategy, is now open for applications. The fund is a partnership between the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC), Movember, and the People’s Health Trust, and is designed to support preventative community-led initiatives that help men prioritise their health and wellbeing and seek support when they need it
Supporting men at every stage of life
The fund is divided into three funding steams, each targeting different age groups and life experiences. Organisations can apply for one funding stream.
- DHSC Funding Stream (up to £3 million)
Grants of between £75,000 and £125,000 are available for projects supporting:
- Men aged 35 to 59 who are unemployed, economically inactive, or experiencing financial insecurity or
- Men aged 60 and over navigating major life changes such as retirement, bereavement, relationship breakdown or caring responsibilities
- Movember Funding Stream (£3 million)
Grants ranging from £150,000 to £300,000 are available for projects focused on:
- Young men aged 16 to 35 with a focus on community ….community-based approaches that build social connection, strengthen resilience, and encourage men to take action to prioritise their mental health
Applications for this stream must be made directly through the Movember website.
- People’s Health Trust Funding Stream (initial £300,000)
This funding, which is expected to grow through additional fundraising, will support men working in industry and is open for applications later in the year
Supporting local action in Knowsley
The Men’s Health Community Fund is part of a national focus on tackling health inequalities and improving outcomes for men, particularly those less likely to seek support from traditional services.
Knowsley Council is strongly encouraging community and voluntary organisations based in the borough to consider applying, particularly those already working with men who may be at risk of isolation, poor mental health, or economic hardship.
How to apply
- Applications for the DHSC funding stream are now open via the Government’s Find a Grant service.
- Applications for Movember funding must be submitted through Movember directly.
- Details of the People’s Health Trust funding will be released later this year.
Cllr Christine Bannon, Knowsley Council’s Cabinet Member for Health, said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for community groups in our borough to access funding to support men and boys.
“It is well documented that mental health and stigma around accessing support is having an adverse impact on men and boys in our communities and this fund can support a change in Knowsley.
“I urge any groups interested to apply.”
You can find out further information via the DHSC website: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/men-to-get-better-health-support-through-innovative-partnership