The team here at Wave Community Bank would like to wish you all a great International Men’s Day. Taking place every year on the 19th November, International Men’s Day is a time to recognise and celebrate the positive impact men have on our lives and communities. This year’s theme, “Positive Male Role Models,” encourages us all to honour the men who inspire us and support the wellbeing of others.
We see this as an opportunity to highlight the link between financial wellbeing and overall health and happiness, while celebrating the contributions men make to society.
International Men’s Day is more than just a celebration; it’s a chance to reflect on the importance of wellbeing for men and boys. From the father who provides support and guidance, to the friend who’s always there, and the male role models who make our community stronger, we all know men whose impact is worthy of recognition.
November is a big month for the men! It brings together a couple of events that mean a lot to men. Movember, of course, is all about raising funds and awareness for men’s health so this is another reason to celebrate International Men’s Day!
Why Men’s Financial Health Matters
In our work as the credit union for East Sussex and Kent, we’ve seen how financial stability can be a crucial part of wellbeing. Financial worries can lead to stress, which in turn can impact mental and physical health. Research shows that men often face unique challenges in this area:
- Higher suicide rates: Men have a suicide rate three times higher than women, often linked to unaddressed mental health concerns.
- Health risks: Men are nearly twice as likely to suffer from certain conditions, such as heart disease and lung cancer, partly due to stress factors.
- Life expectancy gap: Men on average live four to five years less than women.
We believe that by addressing financial wellbeing on days like this can help relieve some of these pressures, allowing men to thrive and become the best version of themselves.
The Six Pillars of International Men’s Day
International Men’s Day is all about celebrating men and promoting a healthier, happier community for everyone. The goals for this day are based on what’s known as the “Six Pillars of International Men’s Day”:
- To promote positive male role models; not just movie stars and sports men but every day, working class men who are living decent, honest lives.
- To celebrate men’s positive contributions to society, community, family, marriage, child care, and to the environment.
- 3. To focus on men’s health and wellbeing; social, emotional, physical and spiritual.
- To highlight discrimination against men; in areas of social services, social attitudes and expectations, and law
- To improve gender relations and promote gender equality
- To create a safer, better world; where people can be safe and grow to reach their full potential.
Join Us in Celebrating Men’s Day
Here are a few ways you can get involved this International Men’s Day:
- Celebrate the men in your life: Take a moment to appreciate the fathers, brothers, sons, friends, and colleagues who positively impact your life.
- Raise awareness: Share information about men’s health, wellbeing, and the importance of financial stability.
- Encourage positive conversations: Let’s shift the narrative around manhood and masculinity to include kindness, self-care, and support.
Guide for Employers on International Men’s Day
International Men’s Day has grown in popularity over the past decade with employers and organisations using it as a reason to hold wellbeing events and activities for male members of staff in all their diversity. There were around 800 UK events in 2023 and this has grown from about 10 at the start of the last decade. Here is a guide which sets out some ideas for employers to get involved and provide more wellbeing support to male members of staff. – Employer Guide for International Men’s Day.
Empowering Wellbeing with International Men’s Day
This day is a chance to recognise the good, address the challenges, and work toward a future that’s better for everyone. We’re proud to contribute to our community’s wellbeing by offering resources that empower all members to improve their financial health. This International Men’s Day let’s come together to support the men in our lives, foster understanding, and celebrate the positive role models who inspire us every day.
If you would like more information about International Men’s Day visit International Men’s Day in the UK
Here are also some suggested men and boys’ charities you could support.
