On 14 October 2026, MANUP? will be joining the Ministry of Defence Defence Mental Health & Wellbeing Network Connect Conference for a virtual session with staff from across the MOD.

The session has been arranged following an invitation from the conference organisers, who wanted MANUP? to share more about the charity, why it was created, and what we've learnt from working with thousands of men over the years.

Rather than focusing on theory or awareness campaigns, the discussion will centre on practical engagement. We'll be looking at why so many men struggle to engage with traditional support, what we've found genuinely helps men open up, and how colleagues can encourage conversations before problems reach crisis point.

Dan Somers, Founder and CEO of MANUP?, will also share some of the real-life experiences that have shaped the charity. These include stories from men who have rebuilt their lives, found healthier ways to cope with difficult periods, and supported others simply by changing how they approached conversations.

The aim isn't to tell people to "just talk". It's to explore why many men don't, what gets in the way, and the practical changes that can make those conversations happen more naturally.

We're grateful to the Ministry of Defence for inviting us to contribute to the conference and for recognising the importance of creating environments where men feel able to support one another.

MANUP? regularly works with employers, public sector organisations, charities and community groups across the UK, delivering honest, evidence-informed conversations that help people better understand men's mental health and how to engage men more effectively.