Men’s health matters — have your say on what needs to change | Healthwatch Northyorkshire

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Men’s health matters — have your say on what needs to change

The Government launched a call for evidence to inform the development of a men's health strategy for England. Share your views by 17 July 2025.
A white man in his 40s with a beard sat on a sofa with his head in his hand and looking reflective

We know—another strategy, another survey. But this one could genuinely shape the future of men’s health in North Yorkshire and beyond.

Right now, the government is working on a new Men’s Health Strategy for England, and they’re asking for your views. It’s about recognising that, for too long, men’s health hasn’t had the attention it deserves. And change only happens when the people affected have a seat at the table.

Their call for evidence wants to seeks the views of the public, health and social care professionals, academics, employers, and other organisations. 

Men face unique challenges

Throughout their lives:

  • Men are disproportionately affected by a number of health conditions, including cancer, cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes.
  • Life expectancy data also shows that men live on average four years fewer than women (79.1 versus 83.0 years in England, respectively).
  • On average, men in North Yorkshire die earlier than women — and spend more of their later years in poor health.
  • Men are less likely to seek help for their mental health, and more likely to die by suicide.
  • In some areas, avoidable deaths from heart disease, cancer and liver disease are significantly higher among men.

This strategy is a chance to tackle some of those inequalities head-on — but only if it reflects real experiences and real needs.

That’s where you come in.

Whether you're someone who’s struggled to get the right support, worried about a loved one, or have ideas about what would actually make a difference — your voice matters. By sharing your views, you’ll help shape a plan that speaks to the real barriers men face in getting care, from mental health stigma to not being taken seriously in healthcare settings.

We know people can feel fed up with being asked for their views without seeing results. That’s why we’ll be keeping a close eye on this strategy and pushing for it to deliver change — in policy, in services, and in outcomes. And if we hear things locally that need acting on sooner, we’ll make sure those issues don’t get lost in the conversations locally.

Take part in the survey

The Government will use your ideas and evidence to help inform the strategy. Their Department of Health and Social Care wants to hear from men of all ages and backgrounds, as well as the people who support them. They want to hear from anyone aged 16 and over and who lives in England. 

An easy-read and British Sign Language version of the call for evidence will be made available. 

If you want to respond, make sure you do so by 11:59pm on 17 July 2025.

Tell the Government your views

Let’s make sure North Yorkshire’s voices are heard — and that this isn’t just another strategy, but the start of real change.