Council boosts funding for men’s mental health through Divine Days

Divine Days Community CIC, a Skelmersdale-based social enterprise supporting individuals with additional needs and disabilities, received an additional cash injection from the Council’s 2025/2026 UK Shared Prosperity Fund to provide lifechanging support services for men’s mental health in the Borough.

The Council previously awarded £50,000 to Divine Days. This additional £17,887 will strengthen ‘Project Man-Archy’, a dedicated service supporting men across the Borough who face mental health challenges.

12.5% of men in England have a mental health disorder, three times more men are likely to die by suicide in England than females and almost double the rate of men die from alcohol-specific causes than women. *

Project Man-Archy is focused on reaching men facing significant challenges, particularly those with suicidal tendencies, to prevent further decline in their wellbeing. The initiative offers vital support through clear communication, structured guidance and wellbeing strategies to help individuals take back control of their lives.

The 'Next Steps Programme' has already made a clear difference, helping men build confidence, find work or training and embrace healthier routines. The programme helps participants set clear goals, access valuable resources, and make progress in both their personal and professional lives, playing a key role in promoting improved mental health, as well as financial and physical well-being.

Councillor Vickie Cummins, Lead Member for Health and Wellbeing, said: "Mental health struggles can be incredibly isolating and for many men. Asking for help isn’t easy.

“Seeing the impact last year’s funding had by supporting this organisation to deliver key support to residents in our West Lancashire community was fantastic. I’m so pleased we are further contributing to their life-changing work.

Richard Whitehead, Finance Director & Man-Archy Lead at Divine Days, added: "This funding has been a huge support for us. We see firsthand how many men in our community feel lost, struggling with mental health issues alone.

“With this additional support, we can reach more people, offer them practical help and remind them they’re not alone. Together, we really can change people's lives."

The organisation collaborates with ICAN (Independent Community Advice Network), and the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) to help individuals access the correct benefits, secure appropriate job opportunities and receive practical guidance on daily essentials such as food and general wellbeing support.

For more information about Divine Days and Project Man-Archy, visit https://www.divinedays.co.uk/

You can contact Divine Days by emailing info@divinedays.co.uk or calling them on 07777 149598.