A mental health charity hailed as a “lifeline” to men in Derry for the past 30 years has been forced to immediately suspend new referrals due to a “severe shortage of funding”.
Men’s Action Network has supported thousands of men and their families. However, it has never received core funding.
Now that the European Social Fund has been cut off, charities are vying for an ever-dwindling pot of money, said Chris Kerr, the co-ordinator of Men’s Action Network.
He has requested a meeting with Health Minister Mike Nesbitt to seek core funding.
“The dire lack of sufficient financial support has brought us to a critical juncture where the continuation of our services is gravely threatened,” he said.
“Without urgent and substantial funding, we may be forced to close our doors permanently, a prospect that would leave a significant void in our community.
“Since its inception, Men’s Action Network has been dedicated to providing comprehensive and multifaceted support to men facing a range of challenges.
“Our services operate seven days a week and include professional counselling, a dads’ and kids’ group, social housing advice, a wellness hub that features gym sessions, Alcoholics Anonymous meetings, a writing group, and extensive community outreach.
“These services are not merely beneficial but essential, offering a lifeline to men and their families in times of need.”
One service user named Gerry received support from Men’s Action Network after being involved in a serious car accident.
He explained: “I did a lot of damage to my back, all my ribs were broken, I had two punctured lungs and a head injury.
“I was in hospital for nine months and I’m still in rehabilitation.”
Gerry recalled a time when he didn’t see a future, saying every day is about “surviving”.
“If your mental health is screwed, you’re screwed. It doesn’t matter what you have to do, if your head is not in it, then you can’t do it,” he added.
“These guys are helping me stay on my feet and to stay away from any and every taboo. It’s amazing how it has worked.”
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Gerry said the funding is vital as he believes it has changed the lives of men like him.
He asked: “How is there no funding for this service? Our government should know what people are going through.”
Another service user named Patrick said he is registered blind and diabetic, and previously had addiction issues.
“Coming here has helped me fill that void. No man is an island, if we don’t have this place to come to then you’re left on your own,” he said.
“The fact that funding is lost has come like a bolt from the blue, it’s cutting off a lifeline for people. It’s a vital service and people need it.”
Each year, over 750 men here rely on services at Men’s Action Network for support, guidance and companionship.
Its potential loss would be “devastating”, Mr Kerr said.
He added: “The loss of Men’s Action Network would result in a significant increase in untreated mental health issues among men, leading to higher rates of depression, anxiety and other mental health disorders.”
He urged politicians and policymakers to take male mental health seriously and move beyond lip service.
The Department of Health was contacted for comment.