Aim
Space North East is a men’s mental health CIC offering peer-to-peer support to like-minded individuals through practical group sessions, sponsored walks and educational events.
Based in Sunderland, Space had bold plans to support local men to combat loneliness and depression with the ultimate aim of reducing male suicide rates in the North East.
Space needed to understand existing research on the subject, to complement their lived experience (which you can read about here: Space North East). To really make an impact on the public (for educational purposes) and funders (to ensure their vital work can continue), they needed reliable, valid and up-to-date figures and statistics.
Work
As a CIC based in Sunderland, Space North East was eligible for 12 hours of fully funded support through the BIPC Experts in Residence CityLife Fund.
During the initial meeting, where mental health and its impact on people and business was discussed at length and with sensitivity, together we identified that the best use of the 12 hours of time would be to drill down further into the area of absenteeism and presenteeism in the workplace.
As this was an area the business was considering expanding into in the future, it made sense to have MMC do this research to ensure insights weren’t biased by past experiences or pre-conceived ideas. In addition, we were able to identify the most recent data on male suicide rates across the North East which would further enhance any future marketing materials.
Results
The resulting 14-page report contained key statistics with supporting visuals to highlight the most impactful insights for their target audiences. We also included key summaries and further links to research they may wish to investigate further.
Over a year since receiving the initial report, the organisation continues to grow from strength-to-strength. With 500+ men supported over the years, the CIC has diversified their offerings to include initiatives including men’s yoga sessions, and a coffee space initiative which involves the hiring of a coffee van for your business/event or group (with all profits going back into supporting local men).
Space is now at the point of taking on a paid Men’s Wellbeing Coordinator, to support the business growth and development, which in turn will only help and support more men across the North East.
