Men’s Health Project – East Sussex

About the project

Building on learning from the Mr Hastings and St Leonards programme, the project is preparing to expand into Rother. It creates opportunities for men to shape activities that strengthen wellbeing within their communities.By listening to local men, understanding what matters to them and drawing on their skills and experience, the project supports men to live happier, healthier and longer lives. It also works with partners and stakeholders to develop a shared vision for improving health and wellbeing for men and the communities around them.

Our role in the project

Hastings Voluntary Action is the lead organisation hosting and coordinating the Men’s Health and Wellbeing Project in East Sussex. It provides the core infrastructure, staffing and partnerships needed to broaden the project’s reach across the county.

Who we’re working with

Local men and their communities will be at the heart of decision making, alongside voluntary and community groups already working with men or wishing to do so. Health and statutory partners will also be engaged, learning from the project about what works for men and their communities.

Our approach

The project takes a community led, coproduced and asset based approach, with local men at the centre of shaping action on their own health and wellbeing. It focuses on building relationships, trusted spaces and activities that feel locally owned, rather than delivering a traditional, topdown service. Co-production runs through every stage, drawing on the strengths and skills already present. By working across sectors, the project brings together voluntary groups, residents and health services to create shared visions and agreed goals that support men and their wider communities.