Following today’s announcement by the Department of Health and Social Care calling for men of all ages to come forward and feed into England’s first ever men’s health strategy, UKMSA (UK Men’s Shed Association), has confirmed it will be contributing fully to this evidence-gathering phase.
UKMSA, a long-standing champion of the proposed Men’s Health Strategy, was part of the first ever Men’s Health Summit where Wes Streeting, Health and Social Care Secretary announced the ‘Plan for Change’ with the aim to rebuild the health service and deliver better care for everyone.
“We all have a responsibility to take part to help the government create an effective strategy to prevent and combat the biggest health issues facing men,” said Rob Lloyd, Chair of UKMSA. “The Men’s Health Strategy is a defining moment to tackle preventable deaths, cut suicide rates, and build a future where every man has the support to live a longer, healthier, and happier life. Now’s the time to share experiences that will help shape a long-term strategy and save lives.”
UKMSA will be encouraging and supporting Sheds and Shedders from throughout the UK to make contributions. “Men’s Sheds are a right place to promote healthier behaviours in men, in the right way. Sheds address key areas such as suicide prevention, prostate health, diabetes and cardio-vascular disease. Not only that, but Sheds are good for men’s mental health, and encourage men to access and engage with health services in a unique and effective way.” said Patrick Abrahams of UKMSA’s influential Health & Wellbeing Advisory Group (HAWAG).
UKMSA will be issuing further details of how Sheds & Shedders can take part shortly. The Men’s Health Strategy for England: call for evidence – GOV.UK will be open for views on the Department of Health and Social Care website until 17 July.