MensNet

The network for people and organisations supporting men and boys across Norfolk and Suffolk.

How MensNet is different

MensNet is not a service. It is not a campaign group. It is not a lobbying organisation.

It is a network for people and organisations who care about improving outcomes for men and boys. A place to:

  • Share learning
  • Build partnerships
  • Develop evidence
  • Amplify good practice
  • Influence policy
  • Strengthen the impact of our work

Rooted in place, connected by purpose

Across Norfolk and Suffolk, many people and organisations are supporting men and boys. They work in mental health, children’s services, education, youth work, criminal justice, domestic abuse prevention, suicide prevention, community development, housing, employment and countless other fields. They help men through challenging times and create opportunities for them to connect and contribute.

 

Many are small organisations with limited resources. Many work in isolation. Good practice is often developed locally but is rarely shared more widely.

 

At the same time, policymakers, funders and commissioners are increasingly recognising the need for gender-informed, localised approaches to health and wellbeing, yet often struggle to identify who is working in this space and what evidence exists.

 

MensNet exists to bring these voices together.

Local experience, local expertise

The lives of men and boys are shaped by their circumstances and access to opportunities. Rural isolation, poor transport links, limited access to services, coastal deprivation and changing patterns of employment can all affect the wellbeing of men and boys in our region.

 

There is an enormous amount of expertise, innovation and commitment across our region. By sharing learning, building partnerships and strengthening connections, we can better understand the challenges facing men and boys and develop more effective responses.

What MensNet does

Creating opportunities for organisations, practitioners and community leaders to meet, learn and collaborate.

Highlighting evidence, research, lived experience and examples of effective practice.


Supporting organisations to learn from one another and work together where it makes sense.

Ensuring the experiences of men and boys in Norfolk and Suffolk are heard by commissioners, funders and policymakers.


Helping create a more balanced, informed and compassionate discussion about the lives of men and boys.

Our principles

The challenges facing men and boys are too significant for any single organisation to solve alone.

We are interested in what works. MensNet creates space for robust discussion, learning and challenge while remaining grounded in evidence and lived experience.

Supporting men and boys does not mean ignoring the experiences of women and girls. We believe happier, healthier men and boys contribute to more stable families, stronger communities and a fairer society.

We recognise the strengths, contributions and potential of men and boys while creating space to address the challenges many face.


Who is MensNet for?

MensNet is for anyone with a professional interest in the lives of men and boys. Whether you’re delivering services, conducting research, shaping policy, supporting your community or simply want to learn more, you’re welcome.

 

Together, we can build a stronger understanding of the challenges men and boys face, share what works and create more opportunities for men and boys across our region to connect, belong and thrive.

Join the network

Contact us