Community led projects involving voluntary, community and social enterprise will support men and boys aged 16+ with a focus on the most deprived areas.

Health and social care secretary, Wes Streeting said: ‘Too many men across the country are living shorter, less healthy lives – particularly those in our most disadvantaged communities. 

‘This new partnership will help men get the support they need in the places they feel most comfortable – their communities, among people they trust. By working with expert charities and local organisations, we can reach the men who are too often missed by traditional services and help them take better care of their mental and physical health. 

‘It is a key step in delivering our first ever Men's Health Strategy and driving forward our ambition to halve the gap in healthy life expectancy between the richest and poorest areas.'

The initiative could include: community projects for new fathers; activities supporting men experiencing loneliness and social isolation; young men's social connections and engagement with the health system; and services that help men in work, out of work and moving to retirement.

Dr Alison Wright, president of the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists said: ‘The shift from hospital to community care is a genuine opportunity to transform how women access healthcare - but only if Women's Health Hubs are placed at its centre. Without this, there is a risk that women's health could be absorbed and lost within the broader model.

‘More than 565,000 women in England are already waiting for gynaecological care. The evidence already shows that Women's Health Hubs improve timely access to care, are cost-effective and tailor care to local need. Women deserve to know where to go for their care, and clinicians need clear pathways to support them.

 ‘The RCOG is calling for clarity and commitment from the Government that Women's Health Hubs will be integral to the new neighbourhood health centre model. Just as we've seen the Government commit millions for men's community health today, we must see the same commitment and investment for women in the renewed Women's Health Strategy.'