October is here, which means it’s nearly time for Movember – the annual moustache growing event raising awareness and funds for men’s health issues.
The campaign kicked off in 2003 in Australia with just 30 men boldly growing moustaches for the cause. Since then, Movember has snowballed into a global movement, with over 6 million participants worldwide.
Here in the UK, hundreds of thousands of “Mo Bros” and “Mo Sisters” raise millions each Movember by doing everything from growing moustaches to running marathons. The funds go towards groundbreaking research, support services, and early intervention programs.
Men’s Health Crisis
Men’s health is in crisis globally. On average, men die a shocking 4.5 years earlier than women – and largely due to preventable reasons, like prostate cancer and testicular cancer. Mental health issues also disproportionately affect men, with the rate of suicide in the UK being 3 times higher for men than for women.
By getting involved in Movember, the trades community can help spread awareness of these issues, raise vital funds for research, and encourage men to take preventative action for better health outcomes.
There are many great ways for tradespeople to join the Movember movement:
- Grow a Mo – Have friends and colleagues sponsor you to grow a moustache. It’s the perfect way to spark conversations about the cause.
- Move for Mental Health – Walk or run 60km over November to remember the tragic 60 men lost to suicide globally every hour.
- Host a Mo-ment – Organise a fundraising quiz night, auction, or other event to raise money and awareness.
- Mo Your Own Way – Dream up your own creative idea to support men’s health and get sponsored. Skydive? Wax your legs? Shave your head? Anything goes.
Workplace fundraising is also a great way to get involved. Trade businesses can run leaderboards, contests, events and more to encourage friendly competition and fundraising. Getting the whole company involved builds camaraderie while making a difference.
Support Networks
As well as supporting Movember directly, it’s important we have open and supportive conversations with friends, family and coworkers about mental health. Encouraging people to speak up if they are facing challenges can make a huge difference.
Here at Tradesman Saver, supporting our tradespeople is our biggest priority. Our Staff Counselling Helpline, accessible to both businesses and their employees, provides confidential support and advice on all areas of your life – not just work-related matters.
Movember also offers free resources like “How to Spot the Signs” posters and online tools to help friends, families, employers and coworkers identify when someone may be struggling. Visit their website to browse conversation guides like ALEC (Ask, Listen, Encourage, Check In) and start a dialogue with a fellow tradesman.
Tradesman Talk
Are you participating in Movember this year, as a business or an individual? What are you doing to raise funds or awareness?
Let’s rally together to support this important cause. Share your Mo-growing or fundraising plans in the comments below, and share this story on social media.
Until next time, make sure it’s Tradesman Saver.
