What is International Men’s Day and when is it?
International Men’s Day is an annual celebration of the positive contributions of men and boys in society, promoting positive conversations about men and masculinity. It aims to raise awareness about men’s health and wellbeing, advocate for gender equality, and address issues such as mental health challenges amongst men. This year, International Men’s Day takes place on 19 November 2025.
How can I learn more?
There are a variety of research materials and events available if you would like to increase your awareness of the challenges surrounding boys and men, and how to create a more positive environment in which to tackle these issues. Boys’ Impact was launched in 2023 to address the gap in educational outcomes for boys and young men who receive Free School Meals. It is a network of educators, researchers and practitioners, and you can read reports on the website. Its approach is founded in principles of relational education developed by Taking Boys Seriously, which argues that meaningful relationships between boys and educators are crucial. The principles involved include utilising a ‘strengths-based approach’ to learning, challenging and affirming masculine identities, and valuing the voice of boys.
Future Men is another organisation that aims to empower boys and men to become positive, responsible, and fulfilled individuals through community, mentoring, and education. There is also a mixture of free and paid events relating to International Men’s Day you can book onto. The Inclusive Employers website has useful information on how employers can make a difference and promote positive conversations around masculinity and the wellbeing of men and boys.
What is the University doing to support men and boys?
The Kent & Medway Boys’ Impact Hub is part of the National Boys’ Impact movement and one of its programmes is the University of Kent’s Championing Boys programme, which has been running since 2023. Championing Boys helps boys from socio-economically disadvantaged backgrounds engage positively with education. This year, the University of Kent hosted the first Kent & Medway Boy’s Impact Conference.
What support is there in Kent?
The mental health charity Mind have a Men’s Group in North Kent, which offers a 12-week peer support group for men in Dartford, Gravesham, and Swanley, which you can self-refer for. Mind also have men’s groups in East Kent. LADS is a men’s support group in Dover which offers a safe space for men to discuss daily challenges and mental health. Andy’s Man Club and the Men2 Group are both peer support groups for men in Maidstone. HiS Charity are also based in Maidstone. MenTalk Health is a weekly group for all men in Swale struggling with mental health or enduring a difficult time.
How can I give support?
One of the main goals of International Men’s Day is to increase understanding of funds, charities, and initiatives that support men and boys’ wellbeing. There is a list of charities you can support and advice on organising a community event to support International Men’s Day.