Stronger Men’s Network

Stronger Men’s Network is a community-led health and wellbeing programme by RISE Projects, created to support Black African and Somali men in Haringey. The project provides a safe, welcoming and culturally appropriate space where men can come together, build friendships, discuss important health and life issues, and access practical support.

Many of the men we work with face multiple challenges, including social isolation, poor mental health, housing pressures, long-term health conditions, unemployment, gambling-related harm, substance misuse and barriers to accessing mainstream services. Through weekly sessions, informal drop-in support, peer conversations, outreach and health awareness workshops, the Stronger Men’s Network helps men feel heard, supported and more confident to seek help earlier.

The network also works with local health providers, voluntary and community sector organisations and community partners to bring trusted advice directly into spaces where men already feel comfortable.

Key Objectives

The Stronger Men’s Network aims to:

  • Create a safe and consistent space for men to meet, connect and reduce isolation.

  • Improve awareness of key health issues affecting Black African and Somali men.

  • Encourage earlier help-seeking around mental health, physical health, housing, gambling, alcohol and drug misuse.

  • Support men to access GP services, health checks, referrals and local support.

  • Provide culturally appropriate information, advice and signposting.

  • Build peer support, confidence and resilience through regular group sessions and informal conversations.

  • Strengthen links between local men, health services, community organisations and Haringey support networks.

What We Deliver

The project includes:

  • Weekly men’s group sessions.

  • Informal drop-in support.

  • Peer-support conversations.

  • Health and wellbeing workshops.

  • Outreach into local community spaces.

  • WhatsApp information sharing and reminders.

  • Practical signposting and referral support.

  • Partnership work with health providers and local voluntary sector organisations.