As we approach International Men’s Day on 19th November we want to recognise and celebrate the fantastic men here in Norfolk. Here at the Chambers, we’re incredibly lucky to work alongside some amazing men (check them out here) as well as being inspired by our amazing business community which showcases some spectacular men. International Men’s Day is held annually and this year it’s focusing on wellbeing, positive conversations, and raising awareness of the charities that are available to support boys and men with their mental health and wellbeing. In 2021, The Office for National Statistics reported that there were over 5,000 suicide deaths in England with over 73% of those males.* The retailer, Next, released a campaign in 2020 on #SayMoreThanOK highlighting the importance of men being able to open up to share that they’re not okay and to have the support they need to take care of their mental health and wellbeing. View their video here. Here in Norfolk, we have some fantastic charities that provide support to everyone in need. Norwich City Football Club delayed the release of their kit this year in aid to raise awareness of mental health. Stephen Fry is not only a NCFC fan, but he is also president of Mind, and bringing the two together, he delivered an inspirational video showcasing just how important mental health is and how it impacts 84% of people in their lifetime. Jason Carlton, Director of Uptech says “A high percentage of men are very good at masking their true thoughts and feelings and not sharing with others their real problems. We have the tendency to allow our thoughts to build up challenges and problems that confront us which in turn can trigger our vulnerabilities that leads to an unclear state of mind into what we think is the way out. Our mental state and wellbeing are clearly not just down to gender or age its a massive problem across for board and is wrapped around different layers in what is perceived to fit in culturally and accepted in our environments and communities which can isolate us and single us out and have a huge impact on our mental wellbeing feeling alone. If there is a takeaway in awareness on mental health issues – I would encourage business owners – leaders to roll out mental health champion training within your organisation.” Alex Wiseman from Norfolk and Waveney Mind says “We are your local mental health charity. We work to ensure that no one has to face poor mental health alone. This International Men’s Day we want to remind you that whether it’s you needing support, someone in family, a friend or a work colleague, we are here for you. You can call our team who will discuss the most appropriate service for you on 0300 330 5488 or visit our website www.norfolkandwaveneymind.org.uk” In the lead-up to International Men’s Day, we’d like to celebrate all those men who inspire us and encourage conversations around mental health. We’d love to give a shout-out to men who are special to you or inspire you, so send us a photo and a short message here for us to share across our social media in the run-up to International Men’s Day. #InternationalMensDay As a member of the Norfolk Chambers, you have access to a wide range of support through Quest. Quest is there to provide free support and guidance on HR, Health and safety, Legal and Tax issues for you and your business. You have access to a large library of documents and direct hotlines to Quest specialists. Get in touch with your account manager to find out more. Find more amazing charities here. *https://www.ons.gov.uk/peoplepopulationandcommunity/birthsdeathsandmarriages/deaths/datasets/suicidesintheunitedkingdomreferencetables
