Equimundo’s State of UK Men 2025 is a groundbreaking new study developed in partnership with Beyond Equality, offering a candid, evidence-based look at the emotional, economic, and cultural realities shaping the lives of men and boys across the UK today.
At a time when conversations about masculinity are often dominated by fear or blame, this study urges a shift: from panic to positive engagement. It highlights a generation of men who are navigating deep uncertainty – about identity, purpose, connection, and the future – but who are also seeking help, building community, and expanding what it means to be a man.
What the report shows:
- The state of UK men in 2025: 91 percent of men and women in the UK believe that being a friend is the number one defining trait of masculinity. Yet nearly two-thirds of men say they have to look out for themselves because no one else has their back.
- Men’s purpose in times of insecurity: Half of men across all income groups say they constantly worry about keeping a roof over their heads. Financial pressure and insecurity continue to shape men’s sense of purpose, identity, and well-being.
- Men’s health, well-Being and safety: More than 40 percent of men have thought about self-harm or suicide in the past two weeks, and over two-thirds report symptoms of anxiety and distress. Men’s mental health needs remain deeply unmet.
- The power of connection: Despite widespread isolation, friendship offers hope: 91 percent of men say friendship defines what it means to be a man today. A more connected, caring model of masculinity could help rebuild purpose, safety, and belonging.
What We Can Do:
- Write new scripts around masculinity. Challenge harmful norms and redefine manhood through public campaigns, school programs, and trusted spaces like sports – where care, empathy, and equity are seen as strengths.
- Prioritise social connection and purpose. Fund peer-led, community-based initiatives that offer men belonging, meaning, and a role in shaping the future – especially in low-income communities.
- Engage men as allies in gender equality and safer communities. Train teachers, coaches, and community leaders to engage young men in healthy masculinity and embed empathy, consent, and equity across schools and public programmes.
- Address backlash, online influence and digital culture. Push back against the red pill pipeline by investing in digital literacy, counter-messaging, and inclusive content. Meet men where they scroll – with purpose, not panic.
- Prioritise healthy relationships. Make relationship education foundational – from schools to workplaces – to build the skills men need for connection, intimacy, and respect.
