Recruitment companies and employers alike are being called on to provide more for men in terms of mental health support. Indeed, such provision could be highly important for attracting and certainly for retaining top talent. In time for Men’s Health Week this week, a nationwide survey conducted by flexible workspace experts Office Freedom has found that many men across the UK are still struggling to get the mental health support they need at work – and are increasingly calling for change.
While 1 in 10 men (10.6 per cent) say wellness initiatives are the most important way employers can support their mental health, 16 per cent admit they currently receive no mental health support from their employer whatsoever.
Other key findings show:
- 14 per cent of men say flexible working options are the most important tool for managing their mental health
- 1 in 10 also believe mental health training for managers should be the top priority
Over 62 per cent of men agree that some form of mental health support at work is important - Yet nearly 1 in 3 men (32 per cent) say they don’t want any mental health support at all from their employer – suggesting that stigma and discomfort around discussing mental health may still be a barrier for many.
These results highlight a tension: while many men are demanding support, a significant portion still resist engaging with it – an insight that’s especially important during Men’s Health Week.
The survey, conducted among 1,000 UK workers, also revealed strong support among men for more flexible, autonomous working conditions – with a focus on mental wellbeing and work-life balance.
- 7 per cent of men say flexible working hours should be a legal right
- 3 per cent want the right to work from home protected by law
- 1 per cent want a legal “right to disconnect” outside working hours
- Yet only 14 per cent say paid mental health days are essential
When it comes to what matters most in a job:
- 2 per cent of men say salary is their top priority
- 5 per cent say job security
- And 37 per cent put flexible working hours close behind – suggesting a strong shift in priorities
Looking ahead to the festive season and beyond, men are also advocating for practical time-based benefits:
- 53 per cent want flexible hours around holidays, such as early finishes at Christmas
- 44 per cent support extra paid time off in winter
By contrast, women surveyed were more likely to value childcare support, mental health days, or wellbeing events – showing a clear gender gap in how wellbeing is experienced and managed in the workplace.
“The survey results show a clear message from men across the UK workforce: flexibility, boundaries and autonomy matter more than ever,” said Richard Smith, CEO at Office Freedom. “As we mark Men’s Health Week, this is a timely reminder for employers to listen, adapt and prioritise the evolving needs of their teams – especially when it comes to mental health and long-term wellbeing.”
