Community pharmacy has a vital role to play
For many men, a conversation with their local pharmacist could be the first step towards getting the help they need. Pharmacists are among the most accessible healthcare professionals, offering trusted advice without the need for an appointment and in a familiar community setting.
Why community pharmacy matters
Research shows that 92% of men in the UK regularly visit a pharmacy, yet three-quarters leave without ever discussing their health with a pharmacist.
This matters because delaying or avoiding conversations about health can have significant consequences. More than half of men surveyed (57%) said that not seeking advice had negatively affected their lives, including impacting their work, relationships and overall wellbeing.
The good news is that men are willing to engage when the environment feels welcoming, confidential and supportive. Many said they would be more likely to speak with a pharmacist if they knew conversations would remain private and that they could be referred into NHS services where appropriate.
As the Government starts to roll out its Men's Health Strategy for England, community pharmacy has an important opportunity to help improve access to healthcare, reduce pressure on other NHS services and support men to seek advice earlier.
Five ways pharmacies can better support men
Research has identified five practical steps that can help pharmacies become more welcoming and accessible for men.
1. Create a welcoming, confidential space
Clearly promote the availability of your consultation room so patients know they can have private conversations in confidence.
2. Appoint a Men's Health Champion
Identify a member of the pharmacy team with additional knowledge and confidence to support conversations around men's physical and mental health.
3. Offer dedicated men's health services
Where appropriate, consider promoting men's health checks, wellbeing conversations and tailored health initiatives that encourage preventative care.
4. Improve access and flexibility
Flexible appointment options, convenient opening hours and online booking can help remove barriers and encourage more men to seek support.
5. Engage with your local community
Don't wait for men to ask for help. Community engagement, awareness campaigns and local partnerships can help normalise conversations around men's health and mental wellbeing.
Supporting conversations about mental health
Pharmacists and pharmacy teams are often the first healthcare professionals someone speaks to when they are struggling.
A simple conversation, listening without judgement, offering reassurance and signposting to the right support can make a real difference. Whether someone is experiencing stress, anxiety, low mood or concerns about depression, community pharmacy provides an approachable and trusted place to start.
Hear from our Board Members
We're proud to share reflections from two members of the NPA Board, who discuss why supporting men's mental health matters and the important role community pharmacy can play.
Ashley Cohen, NPA Board Member – Smaller Groups (North of England)
Sanjeev Panesar, NPA Board Member – Smaller Groups (Eastern England)
Resources for NPA members
The NPA provides a range of resources to help pharmacy teams support patients with mental health concerns, including:
You may also find the following external resources helpful:
This Men's Health Month, let's continue to make community pharmacy a place where every man feels comfortable seeking advice, asking questions and accessing support. By creating welcoming environments and encouraging open conversations, pharmacy teams can play an important role in improving men's mental health and helping people get the right care at the right time.
