With men's life expectancy decreasing, what can be done to support men's physical health and mental wellbeing in the region?

The University of Winchester is excited to be hosting a men’s health conference following the release of the government’s white paper Men’s Health: a Strategic Vision for England last November.

The free conference, to be held at the West Downs Centre on 4 September, will be an opportunity for healthcare professionals and those working in public health and health education to meet with people with a shared interest and hear about the latest developments in men’s health across Hampshire.

The keynote speaker will be Simon Bryant, Director of Public Health at Hampshire County Council.

Other key speakers include representatives from Hampshire and Isle of Wight Sexual Health Service, Winchester Hospice, a variety of social care and charity providers as well as academic staff from the University.

In addition to presentations in the main auditorium there will be break-out sessions covering a broad spectrum of issues including male cancer, heart disease, sexual health, nutrition, mental health and sexual assault on men.

A number of organisations will be setting up information stands in the foyer at West Downs, including Saints Foundation, Andy’s Man Club, Wessex Cancer Trust.

In his foreword to the white paper, the then- Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, Wes Streeting pointed out that: “Healthy life expectancy for men has reduced by one and a half years in the last decade. It is a warning siren we can no longer ignore.

He added: “Our strategy is designed to encourage men to take charge of their physical health and mental wellbeing. First, by expanding access to support services; second, by helping them to take better care of themselves; and third, by ensuring stigma is challenged and every man feels empowered to reach out for help.”

Description supplied by the event organiser.