Derry mental health charity to close due to lack of governmental support
Last month, Men’s Action Network (MAN) announced that it had to suspend new referrals
A Derry-based organisation which has supported thousands of men and their families over three decades has had to suspend services due to a lack of funding.
Last month, Men’s Action Network (MAN) announced that it had to suspend new referrals and was at risk of having to close its doors due to a funding crisis.
Men’s Action Network also raised concern that, despite requests from all five Foyle MLAs, the Health Minister Mike Nesbitt declined to meet with the charity.
In a statement, chairperson John McAtamney said: “It is with deep regret that we announce the suspension of services at Men’s Action Network (MAN) after 30 years of providing support within our community.
“This decision was not made lightly, as we fully understand the vital role our charity plays in supporting men and families in our community. For nearly 30 years, MAN has been a beacon of hope for men in need, including victims of male domestic abuse who often have limited options for specialized support. We remain committed to our mission and are determined to return in the future, stronger and better equipped to continue this invaluable work.
“We wish to express our heartfelt gratitude to our dedicated staff and volunteers whose tireless efforts have been the cornerstone of our charity. We also extend our thanks to those who have voiced their sorrow and anger over our closure. Your support and encouragement highlight the profound need for our services and reinforce our commitment to finding a path forward.”
He continued: “We are especially concerned that, despite requests from all five Foyle MLAs, two successive Health Ministers declined to meet with our charity. These meetings were crucial for exploring potential support that could have sustained our operations.
“According to our business case, every £1 invested in MAN saves £10 of the public purse, demonstrating the significant value of our work not only in terms of financial savings but also in alleviating pressure on the NHS, which regularly refers individuals to our services.
“Our charity’s absence leaves a significant gap in support for men, particularly those experiencing domestic abuse. We know that many will be left wondering where to turn now, and we urge other community organisations and stakeholders to step in where possible.”
Concluding, John said: “The value of MAN’s nearly 30 years of work is recognised as invaluable and irreplaceable by numerous organizations and politicians, highlighting the uniqueness of the services we have provided.
“We are profoundly disappointed by the lack of governmental support that has contributed to this outcome, but our resolve to serve our community remains undiminished. To all those who have used our services, we thank you for your trust and courage.
"While MAN may be temporarily closing its doors, we encourage you to continue reaching out to other available resources in our community for help and support—you are not alone.
“As we navigate this challenging period, we remain hopeful and are actively exploring all options to rebuild and relaunch MAN. Our goal is to return stronger, ready to once again provide the critical support that our community so desperately needs.
“Thank you for standing with us and for your belief in the importance of our work. Together, we can continue to strive for a future where all individuals have access to the help they need.”