England's first-ever Men's Health Strategy will be unveiled this week, featuring a major boost for former miners suffering from poor lung health. The landmark initiative, set to be announced on International Men's Day, includes a dedicated £1million fund to tackle respiratory diseases prevalent in ex-mining and industrial communities.
Targeted Support for Mining Communities
Health Secretary Wes Streeting has vowed to address historic health inequalities faced by men who endured a 'life down the pit'. The strategy will direct £1million to the Respiratory Pathways Transformation Fund, specifically to identify and support former miners at high risk of conditions like Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD).
The funding will be used to develop targeted case-finding initiatives in former coalfield areas. By identifying those who need support early, the NHS aims to provide care sooner and prevent avoidable hospitalisations. The money will support organisations across the country, focusing on areas with industrial heritage and evidence of significant health inequalities.
A Turning Point for Men's Health
Mr Streeting stated: "Men's health has been overlooked for far too long." He emphasised the dangerous nature of mining work, which has left men from traditional mining communities with severe lung health issues. "They fuelled our nation for decades, and they deserve support with the after-effects of a life down the pit," he added.
The broader Men's Health Strategy is set to tackle major issues affecting men, including mental health, prostate and testicular cancer, and heart disease. This comprehensive approach marks a significant shift in prioritising male health outcomes across England.
Campaigners Welcome the Move
The announcement has been welcomed by mining representatives. Chris Kitchen, General Secretary of the National Union of Mineworkers, said: "We welcome the Men's Health Strategy and particularly the announcement of extra support for mineworkers with respiratory conditions. It is something we have been actively campaigning for and we are delighted the government has taken this onboard and is taking action."
The government has committed to capturing the learning from this initiative in a one-year-on report for the Men's Health Strategy, ensuring the approach is refined and effective for the communities it aims to serve.
