Male suicide is a national tragedy – it requires immediate action
3 min read
The rising rate of male suicide is a quietly unfolding crisis.
During an average week, 80 men will take their own lives. Now a leading cause of death for men under 50, each suicide is a tragedy that devastates families and communities across the country.
World Suicide Prevention Day is an opportunity to begin addressing this epidemic. That is why we are holding a reception in Parliament today, alongside Andy’s Man Club, to promote and support grassroot organisations that are central to supporting men in their darkest hour.
It is critical that the government work with groups like Andy’s Man Club as these hubs are developed and formed
For too long, men have been discouraged from talking about their emotions or opening up during difficult periods. A faux-macho pretence that sharing is ‘weak’ leads too many to suffer in silence. Andy’s Man Club, alongside other groups, offer hope.
Founded in 2016 by Luke Ambler following the suicide of his brother-in-law, Andy Roberts, Andy’s Man Club provides a safe, non-judgmental space for men to open up about their mental health. From its beginnings in Halifax, it has grown to over 100 clubs nationwide. Every week, men gather to talk, share experiences, and support one another. The club’s motto is straightforward but powerful: “It’s okay to talk”.
We have both visited sessions facilitated by Andy’s Man Club in our constituencies. It is immediately clear that these sessions are invaluable havens within the week for men often suffering personal agony. Whether it be mourning the death of a loved one, relationship issues, substance misuse or simply having a bad week at work, the session is an opportunity to get it off your chest, or ask for friendly advice, or indeed just have a chat and a laugh.
Many men attend in crisis, but come back each week once they have recovered. As a football is passed around the group, people have space to share their experience – without judgment, in confidence and amongst friends. For some, it is a lifeline which many men credit with saving their lives.
However, as powerful as grassroots efforts like Andy’s Man Club are, they cannot tackle the full scope of the male suicide crisis alone. That’s where government action becomes essential.
Currently, many men face long waits for treatment, during which time their mental health may worsen. This is especially so for young people.
The government’s commitment to recruiting 8,500 new mental health professionals is welcome, and an important first step. However, the mental health workforce is already severely overstretched, and further work will be needed to ensure no person has to wait lengthy periods for support they desperately need.
One of the most important aspects of the government’s mental health plan is the creation of open-access mental health hubs for young people in every community. These hubs will offer early intervention and drop-in services, ensuring young men can get help before their struggles escalate into crises. It is critical that the government work with groups like Andy’s Man Club as these hubs are developed and formed.
Male suicide is a national tragedy that requires immediate action. Today, we will remember all those that we have lost, but also shout loudly about the incredible groups operating across the country that offer hope to people in their darkest moments. Going forward, government and the voluntary sector can work together to turn the tide on male suicide and save lives.
Jake Richards is the Labour MP for Rother Valley and Josh MacAlister is the Labour MP for Whitehaven and Workington
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