Howdens, the UK’s number one trade kitchen supplier, has partnered with men’s health charity, Movember. The partnership, which will run year-round, will aim to assist the charity in raising vital funds to support projects and research that focuses on some of the biggest health issues faced by men.
In the UK, 3 out of 4 suicides are men*, with those working in the construction industry at the highest risk of suicide, with two tradespeople taking their own life every day**. Howdens’ partnership with Movember will see the company create awareness and provide on-going support to colleagues, as well as their friends and family members who are struggling with their mental health.
To kick start the partnership, Howdens will be encouraging employees and customers to take part in a month-long fundraising event during the month of November. Participants can get involved by growing a moustache, as well as donating through scanning posters in depots. Adding in a healthy dose of competition, Howdens will be listing each individual depot total which will go towards the company grand total which will be announced in December. For those who are unable to grow a moustache, they can move or host or they can submit fundraising ideas, with the best considered for future fundraising campaigns.
Forbes McNaughton, Howdens Company Secretary, says: “We’re thrilled to be partnering with Movember, to help raise awareness for men’s health. Howdens was founded on the principle of being ‘Worthwhile for ALL concerned’ whether that is for our staff, customers, suppliers or local communities, and so, encouraging more people to join the movement to help men within our industry open up about their health, is a natural move. Additionally, this will ensure that we help Movember continue funding, and applying research to prevent our fathers, brothers, partners, sons and friends, from dying prematurely.”
Anne-Cécile Berthier, Country Director – UK and Europe at Movember, adds: “It is fantastic that Howdens has partnered with us as they are such a key player within the construction sector. Through our partnership together we will raise awareness of the support available to thousands of tradespeople.”
“With such shocking statistics around both suicide and cancer, there is always more work to be done. Funds raised by Howdens will be welcomed and will be put to good use in helping us with our work in these areas.”
The other causes the charity supports are testicular cancer and prostate cancer. In the UK, 1 in 8 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer during their lifetime, and testicular cancer is the most common cancer among young men*. During the on-going partnership, Howdens will support Movember during the key months of activity both cancers.
To find out more about Howdens kitchens visit www.howdens.com or drop into your local Howdens depot. For more information on Movember, please visit www.uk.movember.com
* Stats taken from Movember website – www.uk.movember.com
** ONS Statistics, December 2022 https://www.lighthouseclub.org/ons-statistics-show-construction-suicide-rate-increase-in-2021/
