ARK (Access Research Knowledge) has published a new research update on children's and young people's understanding and experience of respect and disrespect in Northern Ireland.  The findings draw on data from ARK's Kids' Life and Times and Young Life and Times surveys.  This research offers valuable insights for anyone working with boys and young men, and can inform approaches to building respectful relationships in schools, youth settings and communities.  Download a copy at: https://www.ark.ac.uk/ARK/sites/default/files/2026-01/RU170.pdf

LGBT Ireland and University College Dublin (UCD) are currently carrying out the EQUICARES project in Ireland.  EQUICARES is a European research project looking at barriers people face when trying to access mental health services.  The goal is to make these services more inclusive, respectful and effective for everyone.  LGBT Ireland and UCD are specifically interested in the experiences of LGBTQI+ people, but the survey is open to everyone living in Ireland.  Participate in the survey at: www.tinyurl.com/equicares

The All-Ireland Social Prescribing Network Conference 2026 will take place in June 2026.  This year, it will focus upon 'Connecting Communities, North and South: Building Momentum for Social Prescribing'.  Social prescribing links people into non-clinical community supports, which can be particularly attractive to men who are reluctant to attend traditional services.  The conference will bring together practitioners, researchers and community organisations from across the island to share learning, showcase projects and strengthen cross-border collaboration.  Book a place at: https://www.eventbrite.ie/e/all-ireland-social-prescribing-network-tickets-1980862314506

Jigsaw: The National Centre for Youth Mental Health and Belong To: LGBTQ+ Youth Ireland are running a training programme titled 'Supporting the Mental Health of LGBTQ+ Young People'.  This free online training has been created for all adults who work or volunteer with young people in their communities to upskill them in supporting LGBTQ+ young people's mental health.  It is particularly relevant for professionals engaging with gay, bisexual and trans boys and young men who may face stigma and isolation.  Find out more at: https://jigsaw.ie/online-course-lgbti

The Public Health Agency (PHA) has recently worked with colleagues in the Health Service Executive (HSE) to create a poster on crisis and suicide prevention services available across the Fermanagh, Leitrim, Sligo, Cavan and Monaghan areas: https://tinyurl.com/46w9dxxc

A new study by Dooley and colleagues, published in 2026, examines trends in psychological distress among adolescents in Ireland using survey data from 2018 to 2023.  The findings highlight high levels of psychological distress among Irish youth, with significant differences across sub-groups, including by gender.  The authors note implications for both universal and targeted interventions, and recommend continued surveillance of adolescent mental health and the expansion of accessible youth mental health services.  Read more at: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00127-025-03026-8

The Annual Health Promotion Conference will be on Thursday 25th June 2026 at the University of Galway.  The title is 'Promoting Wellbeing through Equity: Social and Structural Determinants'.  More details about speakers and registration will be circulated and announced on the University of Galway website soon.

Men's Health Week 2026 will run from Monday 15th - Sunday 21st June this year.  However, have you given any thought yet to how you could get involved or do something to celebrate it? ...  On Wednesday 15th April 2026, a webinar was held to kick-start the ideas development process, and this featured a range of organisations who have previously organised events and activities in Ireland to mark the week.  During the event, they shared their past experiences to help inspire others to see what is / can be possible.  Watch a recording of the webinar at: https://youtu.be/0jrIp3zhllk