Support That Recognises Different Experiences

The University of Wolverhampton is committed to supporting the wellbeing, safety and success of all students and staff.

We recognise that men can experience a wide range of challenges affecting their wellbeing, relationships, studies, work and sense of belonging.

Whilst many men access support confidently, others may find it difficult to seek help, discuss personal concerns or talk about experiences that leave them feeling vulnerable.

There is no expectation that anyone should manage difficulties alone.

Support is available, and seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

It's Okay to Ask for Help

Many people grow up receiving messages that they should:

  • cope on their own;
  • stay strong;
  • avoid showing vulnerability;
  • solve problems without support.

These expectations can sometimes make it harder to reach out when support is needed.

Everyone experiences difficult periods in life.

Seeking support is a positive step towards understanding challenges, finding solutions and improving wellbeing.

Common Reasons Men Seek Support

Men may access support for a wide variety of reasons, including:

  • mental health and wellbeing;
  • stress and burnout;
  • loneliness and isolation;
  • relationship difficulties;
  • academic pressures;
  • workplace concerns;
  • financial difficulties;
  • family responsibilities;
  • experiences of discrimination;
  • domestic abuse;
  • sexual violence or sexual abuse;
  • bereavement and loss;
  • concerns about identity or belonging.

No issue is too small to seek support for.

Mental Health and Wellbeing

Mental health challenges can affect anyone.

You do not need to be in crisis before seeking support.

Support may help if you are experiencing:

  • persistent stress;
  • anxiety;
  • low mood;
  • difficulty sleeping;
  • loss of motivation;
  • anger or frustration;
  • feelings of loneliness;
  • thoughts of self-harm or suicide.

The earlier support is accessed, the easier it can be to prevent difficulties from escalating.

Men Can Experience Abuse Too

Abuse can affect anyone regardless of gender.

Some men experience:

  • domestic abuse;
  • coercive control;
  • emotional abuse;
  • sexual violence;
  • stalking;
  • harassment;
  • financial abuse.

Men sometimes report concerns about:

  • not being believed;
  • feeling embarrassed;
  • concerns about stigma;
  • uncertainty about whether what they experienced was abuse.

Support services are available and should be accessed without shame or judgment.

Relationships and Identity

Relationships can be an important source of support, but they can also bring challenges.

Support may be helpful when navigating:

  • relationship breakdown;
  • family difficulties;
  • parenting responsibilities;
  • separation or divorce;
  • questions about identity;
  • experiences of loneliness or isolation.

Healthy relationships are built on respect, communication and mutual understanding.

Supporting Positive Masculinities

There is no single way to be a man.

The University recognises that men express themselves, build relationships and navigate life in different ways.

We encourage environments where people can:

  • be authentic;
  • show vulnerability;
  • ask for help;
  • challenge harmful stereotypes;
  • support one another;
  • develop healthy coping strategies.

Positive masculinity is not about meeting expectations imposed by others. It is about living in a way that is respectful, responsible and true to your values.

Internal Support

Students and staff can access a range of University services, including:

  • Safeguarding Support
  • Mental Health and Wellbeing Services
  • Student Life Services
  • Human Resources Support
  • Employee Assistance Programme
  • Chaplaincy and Pastoral Support
  • Report + Support

Support is available whether you are experiencing difficulties yourself or are concerned about someone else.

Specialist Support for Men

Some men may prefer to access specialist support services that focus on men's wellbeing and experiences.

This may include support relating to:

  • mental health;
  • domestic abuse;
  • sexual violence;
  • fatherhood and parenting;
  • bereavement;
  • suicide prevention;
  • relationship difficulties.

Examples include:

SurvivorsUK

SurvivorsUK supports boys, men, and non-binary people aged 13+ who have experienced sexual violence or abuse at any time in their lives.

Andy's Man Club

Andy's Man Club is a men's suicide prevention charity running free, volunteer-led peer-to-peer support groups.

  • Groups: Face-to-face groups are hosted across hundreds of locations in the UK every Monday at 7 pm (excluding bank holidays).
  • National Online Group: Available every Monday at 7 pm for those without a local group nearby.
  • Concept: Provides a safe, pressure-free space for men to open up about their mental health, life circumstances, or past trauma.

Men's Advice Line

Operated by the charity Respect, the Men's Advice Line is a confidential, dedicated helpline for men experiencing domestic abuse.

  • Phone: 0808 801 0327 (Monday – Friday, 10 am to 5 pm)
  • Services: The team offers emotional support, practical safety advice, and referrals to local safe houses and services.
  • Webchat: Provides secure online chats to help male victims.

Supporting Men Around You

You may be concerned about a friend, colleague, student or family member.

You do not need to have all the answers.

Often the most important thing you can do is:

  • check in;
  • listen;
  • avoid judgement;
  • encourage support;
  • take concerns seriously.

Sometimes asking:

"How are you really doing?"

can make a significant difference.

Belonging Matters

Everyone deserves to feel supported, respected and valued.

Whether you are facing a specific challenge or simply need someone to talk to, support is available.

You do not need to wait until things become overwhelming before reaching out.

Remember

Seeking support is not a sign of weakness.

It is a sign that you are taking your wellbeing seriously.

Whether you access University services, specialist organisations, peer support groups or trusted individuals in your life, the right support is the support that helps you feel heard, understood and able to move forward.

If you believe that any of these support services should not be promoted or you have a suggestion for an additional support service, please let us know via ReportandSupport@wlv.ac.uk. We would really welcome your feedback and ideas.

 

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