APPG Annual Report: 2021/22

Summary

The APPG on Issues Affecting Men and Boys was inaugurated on 16 March 2021. Mark Jenkinson MP was the first elected Chair with Nick Fletcher MP becoming chair in September 2021.

Its aim is to: To raise awareness of disadvantages and poor outcomes faced by men and boys in education, mental/physical health and law; to influence attitudes, role models, policy and legislation that will lead to positive differences to their well-being and lives.

By the end of the 2021/22 Parliamentary Term, the APPG had a membership of 36 consisting of 22 Members of Parliament and 14 Peers. These included 19 Conservative members, 7 Labour, 4 Independents, 3 from other parties and 3 Crossbenchers. There are 21 male members and 15 female members highlighting the inclusive make-up of its membership.

There have been nine meetings overall (primarily evidence sessions) including four formal meetings (including for the election of the new Chair).

The APPG’s activities included:

  • Two completed inquiries with a new one just being opened.
  • Members also asked a range of questions, held debates on men and boys issues, and, featured in a number of interviews with the media.
  • The YouTube channel has proved popular with 15 recordings of evidence that have been viewed over 3,000 times and it currently has 100 subscribers.
  • The Twitter account currently has 590 followers.

Inquiries

Inquiry 1: ‘A Boy Today’ (April-September 2021)

This inquiry focussed on “What is life like for a boy today, growing up in the UK?“

It took evidence between April and July 2021 from seven experts on issues ranging from family life/fatherlessness, education, community/social influences and health. It published its report: ‘A Boy Today’ in September 2021. This report was well received and described by the Minister for Equalities as “essential reading on the barriers that many boys and men face in today’s society.”

It laid out a range of policy recommendations to addressing areas of disadvantage facing boys in Britain today. The report forms the foundation of the APPG’s future work.

Inquiry 2: ‘The Case for a Men’s Health Strategy’ (October 2021-February 2022)

This inquiry’s remit was to hear evidence from a range of UK and international men’s health experts on the case for the UK Government to create a Men’s Health Strategy.

It took evidence from six international and national experts.  Their talks are available here. The report “The Case for a Men’s Health Strategy” was published in February 2022 and a range of articles were published including in the Health Services Journal.  

Further progress has been made on this matter including follow-up meetings with Government Ministers and a Westminster Hall debate on a Men’s Health Strategy. Progress on this inquiry can be followed on the APPG website.

Inquiry 3 (Current): ‘Male suicide’ (April 2022-September 2022)

The inquiry’s remit is to “To hear evidence from a range of UK and international experts on the data, causes and solutions for reducing male suicide rates in the UK.” Progress on this inquiry can followed on the APPG website.

Parliamentary Debates and Questions

Members have led a range of debates on men and boys’ issues during the year:

There have also been a wide range of Parliamentary questions that have been asked by Members on men and boys related issues, totalling 14 overall.

Further Information

Further information about the APPG can be found on this website:  https://equi-law.uk/appg-menboys/

Contact: mike@equi-law.uk

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