Swindon Borough Council has used Men’s Mental Health Week to highlight local support services and ongoing efforts to improve mental health outcomes for men and boys across the borough.
The annual awareness campaign, which runs from 15 to 21 June, aims to encourage open conversations about mental wellbeing and help men access support before problems reach crisis point.
The issue remains a significant concern both nationally and locally. Figures released by the council show that men continue to be disproportionately affected by suicide, with 18 of the 25 suspected deaths by suicide recorded in Swindon during 2025 involving men.
Public health officials say men are often less likely to seek help for mental health difficulties and may face barriers to accessing support, including stigma, social expectations and a lack of awareness about available services.
Improving mental health outcomes for men and boys has been identified as a key priority within Swindon’s Public Mental Health Strategic Plan.
To gain a better understanding of local challenges, the council’s Public Health team carried out a survey of men living across the borough during 2025. The findings revealed that many respondents were unaware of the support services available to them and expressed a desire for practical, community-focused support specifically designed for men.
In response, the council has produced a dedicated men’s mental health report and is working with partner organisations to develop an action plan aimed at improving awareness, increasing access to services and ensuring local men help shape future support provision.
Earlier this year, a Men’s Mental Health Summit brought together representatives from healthcare providers, voluntary organisations, employers and people with lived experience to discuss how support could be strengthened across Swindon.
The council says collaboration between agencies will be key to tackling the issue and ensuring support is available in a variety of settings, from formal healthcare services to community groups and peer support networks.
Among the services available locally is free and confidential wellbeing support commissioned by the council through Swindon and Gloucestershire Mind.
A number of community organisations also provide opportunities for social connection and peer support. These include Andy’s Man Club Swindon, IPSUM, A Worthy Hangout, Mental Health Motorbike, TWIGS Community Gardens and Men’s Sheds Swindon.
Many of these groups focus on creating informal environments where men can meet others, share experiences and take part in activities that support positive mental wellbeing.
Councillor Vinay Manro, Swindon Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Adults and Health, said local research had demonstrated a clear need for more accessible and male-focused support services.
He said many men still feel they should cope with difficulties on their own or are unsure where to turn for help. He added that the council is committed to working with local organisations to reduce barriers and make support easier to access.
Councillor Manro also praised community-led initiatives, noting that spaces where men can build friendships and talk openly can play an important role in reducing isolation and supporting mental wellbeing.
The council hopes that by raising awareness of available services and encouraging conversations around mental health, more men will feel able to seek support when they need it.
Residents looking for information about local mental health services and support organisations can find details through Swindon Borough Council’s wellbeing resources.
