Pilot Project

Men's Wellbeing Matters Inc. is a pilot project, established late in 2007, which aims to support men and their families on the Mornington Peninsula.  Currently, the main activity of the project is conducting events which encourage men to take greater responsibility for their health and wellbeing.

Wellbeing

'Wellbeing' refers to how a man’s life is going, that is if his life circumstances are stable, healthy and comfortable allowing him to pursue his full potential and to help his family pursue theirs. 

While popular use of 'wellbeing' relates to physical health only, Men's Wellbeing Matters has a wider focus and is concerned with a man's social health, that is how he is faring in a range of areas of his life, such as family, education, employment, income, housing, sport, recreation and community.

Research has revealed clear links between a man's social health; that is the state of his personal relationships, his job satisfaction, the adequacy of his income and housing etc. and the state of his physical health.

Funding

The project itself is not funded at this time and pursues sponsorship for its events on a project-by-project basis.

Project activities are supported by a small group of human service professionals mostly working on a pro bono basis to organise community events which aim to educate men to take greater responsibility for their wellbeing, especially to have regular checkups with their GPs.

Strategic Planning

It is intended to conduct a feasibility study involving wide community consultation about the possible role of Men's Wellbeing Matters on the Mornington Peninsula, followed by strategic planning.  Funding is being sought to cover the costs of these activities.

Working with Women

The project's emphasis on men's wellbeing does not infer a contest for resources or an attempt to detract from or obstruct the health and wellbeing agenda of women.  Rather, by adopting a gender approach, Men's Wellbeing Matters will highlight key biological, social and cultural determinants of health and wellbeing for men. 

As appropriate, Men's Wellbeing Matters will work with women's groups on issues relating to men's and family wellbeing.