LGA response to DHSC’s call for evidence: Men’s Health Strategy for England

The LGA welcomes the Government’s announcement of the first-ever Men’s Health Strategy for England. Men face significantly higher rates of serious health conditions and premature death compared to women. On average, men die nearly four years earlier than women, with one in five dying before the age of 65 and experience disproportionately higher rates of cancer, heart disease, and type 2 diabetes. 

Cardiovascular disease remains a major concern, with men being twice as likely to die prematurely from it compared to women. Cancer also disproportionately affects men, who have a 37 per cent higher risk of death overall and are 67 per cent more likely to die from cancers that affect both sexes, such as lung and bowel cancer. These disparities are often linked to later diagnoses and lower participation in screening programmes.

Mental health is another critical issue, with suicide being the leading cause of death for men under 35. Alarmingly, four in five suicides in England are in men, highlighting the urgent need for better mental health support and stigma reduction. 

Obesity and physical inactivity further compound these health risks. Currently, 67 per cent of men in England are overweight or obese, and many do not meet recommended physical activity levels, increasing their vulnerability to chronic conditions like type 2 diabetes and hypertension.

Men also tend to engage less with healthcare services. Over 40 per cent of men report only seeking medical help when they believe a condition is serious, which contributes to delayed diagnoses and poorer outcomes. 

These issues are especially acute in deprived areas, where life expectancy can be up to ten years shorter. Tackling health inequalities is paramount. 

Men in disadvantaged communities face significant barriers to good health, driven by social determinants such as housing, employment, and education. The LGA advocates a place-based approach that addresses these root causes and empowers local areas to tailor solutions to their populations.

Preventative health must also be prioritised. The LGA supports an assets-based approach that encourages men to make healthier choices through early screening, lifestyle interventions, and mental health support. Destigmatising help-seeking and improving access to services are critical. Men’s reluctance to engage with healthcare—often due to cultural norms and stigma—requires innovative outreach models such as mobile clinics, workplace health checks, and digital tools.

As the Men’s Health strategy is developed, it is essential to align it thoughtfully with the existing Women’s Health Strategy while recognising the distinct health challenges each gender faces. Historically, health policy has often adopted a one-size-fits-all approach, overlooking the nuanced differences in how men and women experience illness, access care, and engage with services.

The Women’s Health Strategy has made significant progress in addressing gender-specific issues such as reproductive health, menopause, and gender bias in medical research. The Men’s Health Strategy must now complement this by addressing male-specific concerns such as higher rates of suicide, cardiovascular disease, and substance misuse.

Strategic alignment between the two strategies is crucial for creating a cohesive national health vision that promotes equity, avoids duplication, and fosters shared learning. Both men and women benefit from improved health literacy, early intervention, and community-based care—core pillars of NHS reform. A unified framework can also help address intersectional inequalities related to socioeconomic status, ethnicity, and geography.

However, alignment must not mean uniformity. Men face unique barriers to care, including lower engagement with preventive services and cultural stigmas around seeking help. Tailored interventions—such as male-focused mental health outreach and workplace health initiatives—are essential, alongside recognition of biological differences in disease prevalence and progression. 

Smoking remains one of the leading causes of preventable disease and death in the UK, particularly from cancer and cardiovascular disease. It disproportionately affects men—especially those in deprived communities and those living with mental health conditions.

According to the Office for National Statistics (ONS) in 2023, 14.4 per cent of men in the UK were current smokers compared to 10.7 per cent of women. This gender disparity means men bear a greater burden of smoking-related illnesses, including lung cancer, heart disease, and stroke. Smoking is also a major driver of health inequalities, accounting for around half the difference in life expectancy between the richest and poorest men in England.

Young men in manual occupations are particularly at risk. Smoking prevalence among men in routine and manual jobs was 21.4 per cent, more than double that of those in managerial and professional roles (9.9 per cent). These disparities are further compounded among men with serious mental illness, around 40 per cent of whom smoke. Smoking is estimated to contribute to up to 17 years of life lost in this group. Encouragingly, quitting smoking has been shown to improve mental health outcomes, including reduced anxiety and depression.

To reduce smoking-related harm among men, a comprehensive strategy is needed. This should include protecting funding for local stop smoking services, embedding cessation support in lung health checks and at the point of diagnosis for cancer and cardiovascular disease, and expanding digital and emergency department-based interventions.

Without sustained investment and targeted action, men—particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds and with mental health conditions—will continue to suffer disproportionately. Robust data collection is essential to ensure these populations are not left behind in efforts to create a smokefree society.

Suicide remains one of the most urgent public health challenges in the UK. According to the ONS, in 2023, there were 6,069 suicides registered in England and Wales, equating to 11.4 deaths per 100,000 people—the highest rate since 1999. 

Men accounted for nearly 80 per cent of these deaths, with the male suicide rate rising to 17.4 per 100,000, compared to 5.7 for women. The highest age-specific rate was among men aged 45 to 49, at 25.5 per 100,000.

Despite growing awareness, stigma, underdiagnosis, and entrenched societal norms around masculinity continue to prevent many men from seeking help. Cultural expectations discourage emotional vulnerability, and factors such as unemployment, relationship breakdowns, substance use, and social isolation further compound the risk.

Local authorities, supported by the LGA have responded with innovative, community-based interventions. Councils have introduced mental health training for barbers, school-based counselling, health checks at local markets, and outreach programmes targeting farmers and young Black men. These initiatives aim to reach individuals who may distrust traditional services, using trusted community figures and familiar settings to foster engagement.

However, the discontinuation of the £57 million national suicide prevention fund in March 2025 has raised concerns. The LGA is urging the government to reinstate this funding. Local government plays a critical role of local leadership in suicide prevention—through partnerships, sustained investment, and community empowerment.

The previous Government’s Suicide Prevention Strategy for England (2023–2028) outlined a cross-sector approach to reduce suicide rates. It prioritised targeted support for high-risk groups, improved access to mental health services, enhanced support for those bereaved by suicide, and community-based efforts to reduce stigma and promote help-seeking.

In 2025, NHS England introduced new guidance that shifts the focus from risk prediction to a “safety-first” model. This person-centred approach emphasises understanding the individual’s story, exploring protective factors like family and employment, and addressing long-term contributors to distress. It aims to build trust and reduce barriers to care, particularly for men.

Grassroots organisations such as CALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably) and Andy’s Man Club are also playing a vital role. These peer-led initiatives provide safe spaces for men to talk openly, challenge stigma, and build supportive networks.

Digital innovation is expanding access to support, especially for younger men. Anonymous mental health apps, AI-driven check-ins, and online therapy platforms are increasingly popular, offering discreet and accessible alternatives to traditional services.

In partnership with the Association of Directors of Public Health (ADPH) and the DHSC, the LGA launched the Suicide Prevention Sector-Led Improvement (SLI) Programme. This initiative has helped local authorities strengthen their suicide prevention plans through expert workshops, peer reviews, community engagement strategies, and real-time surveillance systems.

Preventing suicide in men requires a coordinated effort across policy, healthcare, and community sectors. By fostering environments where men feel safe to speak up and seek help, we can save lives and build a more compassionate, responsive society.

Men in the UK face a range of significant barriers when it comes to accessing sexual health services, many of which are deeply rooted in systemic, cultural, and psychological factors. Traditional ideas of masculinity often discourage men from seeking help for health issues, particularly those related to sexual wellbeing. The fear of being judged or perceived as weak can prevent men from accessing services for conditions such as sexually transmitted infections (STIs) or erectile dysfunction. This stigma is even more acute among men who have sex with men, who may also encounter homophobia or discrimination within healthcare settings. In 2023, over 2.74 million individuals attended sexual health clinics in England, but attendance among men was disproportionately lower, particularly among those aged 25–34 

Men account for over 60 per cent of all new sexually transmitted infection (STI) diagnoses in England. Chlamydia, gonorrhoea, and syphilis are particularly prevalent, with gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (GBMSM) experiencing significantly higher rates of infection. Men represent around 70 per cent of all new HIV cases, and while testing and treatment have improved, prevalence remains higher among GBMSM. 

Sexual health behaviours also reflect disparities. Men who have sex with men are more likely to report condomless sex with multiple partners, recent STI diagnoses, and poor sexual function. Despite being eligible for vaccinations against HPV, hepatitis A and B, and Mpox, uptake among men—especially GBMSM—varies widely across regions. Furthermore, men are generally less likely than women to attend sexual health clinics unless they are symptomatic, with stigma and lack of awareness acting as key barriers to regular testing and preventive care.

Another major challenge is the lack of services tailored specifically to men. Many sexual health clinics are perceived as being more focused on women’s reproductive health, which can make men feel unwelcome or overlooked. This absence of male-focused outreach and education contributes to lower engagement, especially among heterosexual men who may not see these services as relevant to them. Accessibility is also a key issue. Men with full-time jobs or caregiving responsibilities often struggle to attend clinics during standard hours. Limited appointment availability, long wait times, and underfunded services reduce the likelihood of men seeking timely care.

Compounding these challenges is a general lack of awareness and education. Many men are not well-informed about sexual health, including the symptoms of STIs, the importance of regular testing, and the range of services available. This is particularly true for younger men and those from communities where sexual health is not openly discussed. Intersectional barriers also play a significant role. Men from minority ethnic backgrounds, migrants, and those with lower socioeconomic status often face additional hurdles such as language barriers, mistrust of healthcare systems, and digital exclusion. These factors can lead to delayed care or complete disengagement from services.

Mental health is another critical dimension. Sexual health issues can be closely linked to psychological wellbeing, yet men are generally less likely to seek mental health support. Feelings of shame, fear of diagnosis, or previous negative experiences with healthcare providers can deter men from returning to services or even disclosing symptoms in the first place. Addressing these barriers requires a comprehensive and inclusive approach. This includes culturally competent care, male-friendly service design, targeted outreach, and sustained investment in local sexual health infrastructure. Only by acknowledging and actively dismantling these barriers can we ensure that all men have the opportunity to access the care they need and deserve.

To address the barriers men face in accessing sexual health services, several evidence-based and policy-aligned solutions have been proposed and implemented across NHS and public health initiatives. These solutions aim to tackle stigma, improve accessibility, and ensure services are inclusive and responsive to men's needs:

Creating clinics and outreach programmes that are explicitly welcoming to men can significantly improve engagement. This includes offering male-only clinic hours, employing male staff where possible, and ensuring that promotional materials reflect diverse male identities. Services like the NHS’s “Men’s Health Hub” encourage men to take proactive steps in managing their health, including sexual wellbeing 

Expanding clinic hours to evenings and weekends, and offering walk-in or virtual consultations, helps accommodate men with rigid work schedules or caregiving responsibilities. Some NHS trusts have begun piloting mobile clinics and digital platforms to reach men in underserved areas.

Public health campaigns tailored to men—especially younger men, MSM, and those from ethnic minority backgrounds—can raise awareness about STIs, testing, and available services. These campaigns are more effective when they use relatable language, peer-led messaging, and are disseminated through platforms men frequently use, such as sports clubs, workplaces, and social media.

Given the strong link between sexual health and mental wellbeing, integrating mental health support into sexual health services can reduce stigma and improve outcomes. For example, offering counselling alongside STI testing or erectile dysfunction treatment can encourage men to open up about broader health concerns.

Partnering with community organisations, faith groups, and local leaders can help reach men who are less likely to engage with formal healthcare systems. Peer-led initiatives, where men support each other in navigating services, have shown promise in improving uptake and retention.

Expanding access to home STI testing kits and digital booking systems empowers men to take control of their sexual health privately and conveniently. These tools are particularly effective for men who are reluctant to attend clinics due to stigma or time constraints.

Long-term funding for sexual health services, particularly in underserved areas, is essential. This includes investing in staff training, infrastructure, and research to continually adapt services to men’s evolving needs.

Access to healthcare services remains uneven across the UK. In deprived areas, shortages of GPs and mental health professionals are common. According to NHS England’s 2025 GP Patient Survey, only 58 per cent of patients in the most deprived areas reported a positive experience of making a GP appointment, compared to 78 per cent in the least deprived areas.

Men face distinct and multifaceted challenges in accessing healthcare, shaped by cultural, economic, and systemic factors. They are less likely to engage with preventive services, attend regular check-ups, or seek early intervention. Cultural and psychological barriers—such as mistrust of institutions, stigma around vulnerability, and a belief in self-reliance—frequently delay help-seeking until conditions become severe. This is particularly evident in mental health, where men are less likely to access support despite being at higher risk of suicide and substance misuse.

Traditional notions of masculinity often discourage men from expressing vulnerability or seeking help. Many men internalise the idea that they should “tough it out,” leading to underreporting of symptoms and avoidance of healthcare settings. This cultural conditioning can be especially pronounced in older generations and certain ethnic communities.

Men may also face challenges in understanding or engaging with health information. Health campaigns are often not tailored to male audiences, and some men may feel alienated by clinical language or formal healthcare environments. Limited health literacy can result in missed opportunities for early intervention and poor management of chronic conditions.

While digital tools like the NHS App are expanding access, not all men benefit equally. Older men, those with lower incomes, or those living in rural areas may lack access to smartphones, reliable internet, or the confidence to navigate digital platforms. This digital divide can further isolate men from essential services, especially as more healthcare moves online.

Men in low-income or precarious employment often face practical barriers to accessing care. Without paid sick leave or flexible working hours, attending appointments can mean lost income or job insecurity. This is particularly true for men in manual labour, shift work, or gig economy roles.

Men from marginalised groups—such as ethnic minorities, LGBTQ+ individuals, or those experiencing homelessness—may face compounded barriers. Services may not be designed with their specific needs in mind, leading to disengagement and poorer health outcomes.

Healthcare systems can be difficult to navigate, especially for men who prefer straightforward, solution-focused care. Fragmented services, long referral times, and a lack of continuity in care can deter men from following through with treatment or seeking help in the first place.

There is a growing recognition that improving men’s health requires addressing the broader determinants of health—such as housing, education, employment, and community infrastructure. Councils are increasingly working with grassroots organisations to build trust and deliver services in culturally appropriate ways. These efforts are vital in reaching men who may feel alienated by traditional healthcare settings.

The conversation is evolving from focusing on individual responsibility to acknowledging structural barriers. This shift offers a more inclusive and compassionate approach to public health, positioning men as active participants in building healthier communities. In Australia, the “Men’s Sheds” initiative has become a model for community-based mental health support, with over 1,000 sheds nationwide offering informal spaces for men to connect and access health information. Similar initiatives in the UK, such as community hubs and peer-led support groups, are gaining traction and showing promise in bridging the gap between men and healthcare services.

The UK can draw lessons from countries like Finland, where the integration of occupational health into primary care has led to early detection of chronic conditions and reduced absenteeism. In Singapore, workplace health programmes supported by the Health Promotion Board have led to measurable reductions in obesity and smoking rates among male employees.

In England, men are significantly more likely than women to be regular drug users and to receive treatment for both drug and alcohol use. This pattern is consistently reflected in national surveys and treatment data. 

The Crime Survey for England and Wales for the year ending March 2024 reported that 8.8 per cent of people aged 16 to 59 had used drugs in the past year, with 1.8% identified as frequent users—defined as using drugs more than once a month. Although the survey does not always provide gender-specific breakdowns for frequent use, historical data and broader research consistently show that men are more likely to report drug use, particularly frequent or problematic use. This is especially true among younger age groups, where drug use is most prevalent. Men are also more likely to use Class A drugs such as cocaine, ecstasy, and heroin, and to engage in polydrug use, which involves consuming multiple substances either simultaneously or sequentially.

This higher prevalence of drug use among men is mirrored in treatment statistics. Men consistently make up the majority of individuals in structured drug treatment services in England, often accounting for around two-thirds of all adults in treatment. This trend spans various substances, including opiates, crack cocaine, cannabis, and new psychoactive substances. The reasons for this gender disparity are complex and include higher rates of drug dependency among men, a greater tendency toward risk-taking behaviours, and social and cultural factors that influence help-seeking behaviour.

The same gender pattern is evident in alcohol use and treatment. According to the Health Survey for England 2022, 84 per cent of men reported drinking alcohol in the past year compared to 78 per cent of women. Furthermore, 55 per cent of men drank alcohol at least once a week, versus 42 per cent of women. When it comes to drinking at levels considered increasing or higher risk—defined as more than 14 units per week—32 per cent of men fell into this category, compared to just 15 per cent of women. These differences in consumption patterns contribute to the fact that men make up the majority of individuals in alcohol treatment services, typically around 60–70 per cent of all clients. This is largely due to higher rates of hazardous drinking and a greater likelihood of developing alcohol dependence among men.

Recent data also show a rise in treatment demand for specific substances. For example, the number of adults seeking treatment for ketamine use rose from 426 in 2014–2015 to 2,211 in 2022–2023. Cocaine-related deaths in England and Wales increased by 30 per cent, from 857 in 2022 to 1,118 in 2023. While heroin remains the drug most associated with fatalities, its consumption is estimated to have decreased by 11 per cent between 2023 and 2024. These trends further underscore the importance of gender-specific approaches to prevention, intervention, and treatment in addressing substance use across England.

Evidence shows that every pound spent on drug treatment saves £21 over ten years. This economic argument supports the case for long-term funding commitments, especially in areas with high levels of deprivation and drug-related harm.

To improve access and engagement with treatment services includes tailoring services to meet the needs of specific groups—such as men, who are disproportionately represented in both drug and alcohol harm statistics—and ensuring that services are culturally competent and trauma-informed. 

The LGA supports early intervention and prevention, particularly in schools and family services. In a typical secondary school, around 40 pupils may be living with a parent who has a drug or alcohol problem. Addressing these issues early can prevent intergenerational cycles of harm and reduce the long-term burden on social services.

The LGA recommends embedding lived experience into service design and delivery. People who have experienced addiction and recovery can offer valuable insights into what works and help build trust with service users. Councils are encouraged to involve these voices in commissioning decisions and service evaluations to ensure services are responsive and effective.

Contact: Arian Nemati, Public Affairs and Campaigns Adviser
Email:  [email protected]

Arian Nemati, Public Affairs and Campaigns Adviser
[email protected]