#30Chats with men in Carterton
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Healthwatch Oxfordshire wanted to hear more from working men - who are often seldom heard - about their views on health and care. They decided to focus on Carterton, drawing on ’rapid appraisal’ methodologies from November 2022 to January 2023, to gain quick insights into local health attitudes and needs. They spoke to 31 men in total.
Men told us that it was getting easier to talk about health and wellbeing, particularly for the younger generation. Male friends and men in workplaces could be important in giving peer support for men to talk about health.
Hobbies, and being part of local groups gave opportunity for men to support one another. However, there were less choices for younger men to find groups and activities locally in Carterton aside from sport. Local shops and services provided a valuable ‘anchoring’ role for men in their daily life, providing places to talk and connect.
Whilst men said it was getting easier, stereotypes remain. Some men felt pressure to provide, be strong, using words like ‘Man up’, ‘carry on’ when talking about health and wellbeing.
Men faced barriers to health and wellbeing including lack of time, caring responsibilities, cost of living pressures, loneliness and long hours of work. Manual work was seen as physical activity meant men were often tired at the end of the day and wanted to relax.
A ‘health scare’ or ill health was a factor that made some men seek support from health professionals or start to make lifestyle changes.
Men did not always know where to turn for help and support, and were not always aware of local services, NHS Checks etc. and what they offer Some men found it hard to speak to health professionals about their health and wellbeing and didn’t want to be a ‘burden’. Some saw it as a ‘waste of time’.
Clear messaging, language and proactive communication with men was important to them. Men didn’t want to feel ‘embarrassed’, talked down to, or confused by medical language. They wanted to feel encouraged, respected and valued in interactions with health and care services.
Tailored communication and support to men in ways that they relate to and places they are familiar with would support men in proactively addressing health and wellbeing.