The Irish Heart Foundation is doing a review of all the printed leaflets and other information that they provide to the public.  In order to provide the best information possible, in a way that is easy to understand, they are seeking participants for a short 5-10 minute survey.  Find out more at: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/FMGLKQY

To date, over two million people worldwide have died with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection.  To describe the experience in Ireland, this study examined associations between underlying conditions and the following outcomes: mortality, admission to hospital, or admission to intensive care units among those infected with COVID-19.  This research highlights that the risk of death is significantly higher for men, as is the risk of hospitalisation and ICU admission.  Read more about this study in an article in 'The Lancet' at: www.thelancet.com/journals/lanepe/article/PIIS2666-7762(21)00074-0/fulltext

In April, the Department of Health in Northern Ireland published the Health Inequalities Annual Report 2021.  This publication presents a comprehensive analysis of regional health inequality gaps between the most and least deprived areas of NI, and sub-regional gaps within Health and Social Care Trust and Local Government District areas across a range of health indicators.  The report is accompanied by downloadable data tables which contain all figures, including District Electoral Areas as well as urban and rural breakdowns.  Download the findings at: www.health-ni.gov.uk/publications/health-inequalities-annual-report-2021

Loneliness has emerged as a key public health challenge for the population during the COVID-19 pandemic.  Evidence shows that loneliness is a significant issue for population health - as people who experience loneliness have a poorer overall quality of life and poorer physical and mental health.  If you missed the webinar hosted by the Institute of Public Health, which focused on COVID-19 and rethinking loneliness on the island of Ireland, you can watch it at: https://youtu.be/zRr2YtE8qEU

A new report from the Health Research Board presents an overview of alcohol consumption and harm in Ireland, analysing trends and assessing the impact of policy changes over time.  Download the report at: https://tinyurl.com/4424wa22

A new partnership between Belfast and Lisburn Women’s Aid, Foyle Family Justice Centre and the Men’s Advisory Project has been set up.  This will deliver a Northern Ireland-wide advocacy service for victims of domestic and sexual violence and abuse.  The overall purpose of this initiative is to provide coordinated and tailored support - responsive to individual need - in partnership with established services.  This service has been jointly commissioned by the Department of Justice and the Police Service of Northern Ireland.  Applications are, currently, being sought for 20 new jobs as Advocates.  For full details, see: https://belfastwomensaid.org.uk/work-with-us/advocates-advocacy-project

You are invited to the first in a series of webinars focusing upon Engaging Men.  The 'Why Men’s Health?' webinar will take place on Thursday 29th April 2021, from Noon to 1.00pm, and registration is available at: https://bit.ly/3fykZZ6

HSE Health and Wellbeing, together with the Men’s Health Forum in Ireland, the Men’s Development Network and the National Centre for Men's Health in IT Carlow will host this series of webinars.  Each event will bring expert insights and learning from the delivery of the HSE National Men’s Health Action Plan (titled 'Healthy Ireland - Men').

Every year, the Southern Area Men's Health Group in Northern Ireland runs a event to highlight an issue which impacts upon the well-being of local men and boys.  Due to COVID restrictions in early 2021, this was impossible.  Therefore, they decided to go online instead, and hold a webinar.

This free and upbeat event was held on Wednesday 31st March 2021, and focused upon men 'springing forward' after a long year marked by all things COVID.  Participants were treated to a fantastic morning, including: how Armagh Men’s Shed has weathered the COVID pandemic; an overview of the 'Jumpers for Goalposts' initiative - the inspiring story of how men in local communities used an informal kickabout to connect with each other; a COVID-19 Q&A session with Professor Luke O'Neill from the School of Biochemistry and Immunology in Trinity College Dublin; having a laugh [because we all know this is good for your mental health] with professional comedian, Andrew Ryan.

This webinar (except the comedy set by Andrew Ryan) can be viewed below or, to see it on a full screen, visit: https://youtu.be/xDe2Pm0x6Ak