Healthwatch Warrington has published a new report exploring men’s experiences of mental health support across the borough, revealing high awareness of mental health issues but significant challenges in accessing timely and effective care.
The report, Men’s Mental Health: Experiences of Support in Warrington (May 2026), is based on a local survey capturing the views and experiences of men from a range of backgrounds. It provides valuable insight into how men engage with mental health services and the barriers that may prevent them from seeking or receiving support.
Lydia Hughes CEO for Healthwatch Warrington, said: “We are aware that a lot of work is already underway with partners and commissioners, and we are very pleased to see the excellent work that peer led voluntary groups add to the support for men in Warrington”.
Key Findings
- High awareness, limited support: While 97% of respondents reported being aware of mental health issues, many said they did not feel adequately supported even after receiving a diagnosis.
- Access challenges within NHS services: GP services and NHS mental health pathways were often described as difficult to access, with long waiting times and complex processes.
- Value of community support: Peer-led and community organisations were consistently rated highly, described as welcoming, accessible, and effective.
- Barriers to seeking help: Stigma, fear of judgement, and anxiety around appointments—alongside structural issues such as waiting lists—continue to prevent men from accessing support.
- Wider impact on health: Mental health challenges were found to affect access to other services such as GPs, dentists, and pharmacies.
A Fragmented System
The report highlights that men’s mental health support in Warrington remains fragmented, with inconsistent access and limited coordination between services. While community-based support fills important gaps, statutory services are often seen as slow, rigid, and difficult to navigate—particularly at times of crisis.
Recommendations for Change
Healthwatch Warrington is calling for action across the system to improve outcomes for men, including:
- Increasing flexible and accessible support options
- Strengthening and sustaining community and peer-led services
- Improving signposting and navigation across services
- Addressing stigma and promoting safe access to care
- Expanding early intervention and preventative support
- Improving integration between NHS and voluntary sector services
Sector Response
Local partners have welcomed the report, recognising its alignment with wider system insights. There is strong support for improving access, strengthening partnerships, and expanding community-based provision to better meet the needs of men in Warrington. Lydia Hughes CEO for HWW said ‘ we are aware that a lot of work is already underway with partners and commissioners, and we are very pleased to see the excellent work that peer led voluntary groups add to the support for men. ‘
Next Steps
Healthwatch Warrington will continue to work with partners, commissioners, and community organisations to ensure the findings inform the future development of services and translate into meaningful improvements for local people.
About Healthwatch Warrington
Healthwatch Warrington is the independent voice for people using health and social care services. It works to ensure that people’s experiences shape and improve local services
1 Comment
Good to see an independent view point based on evidence.