Why International Men's Day matters

Each November 19th, the UK celebrates International Men’s Day. It’s not just about celebrating the contribution that men and boys make to our society – this special day also focuses on making a positive difference to their well-being and lives, raises awareness the support available to them, and promotes meaningful conversations about men, manhood and masculinity. 

These values perfectly match those of RSBC’s Boys Crew – a safe space where young men with vision impairment can meet online regularly for catch ups and chats about interests and hobbies, health, current social issues. We checked in with some of Boys Crew’s members in the run up to International Men’s Day to get their thoughts on health, well-being, and talking about the things that are most important to them. Here’s what they had to say… 

What kind of activities do you enjoy taking part in, and how do they affect how you feel?

“Cycling with my family. It’s active, but also a nice way to spend time with my loved ones.” 

“Sports! I enjoy the active and social parts of it, in particular football or rugby.” 

“I like being active and getting exercise. Football’s my favourite, because there are a lot of people playing on the teams.” 

“Coding and programming are good. It’s like a mixture of inventing stuff and problem solving at the same time.” 

Do you have a role model? 

“Someone from parliament. Possible Alastair Campbell – he wrote a lot of interesting books on government, politics and legislation.” 

Looking ahead, what would you like to do in the future?

“The career I would be most interested at the moment would be music therapy. I like the idea of using music as communication/language.” 

“Become a software developer and sell my software for millions of pounds!” 

“I’ve been looking into politics, but probably would like to get a job in parliament to help out the country.” 

“Drive a car… for the lols…!” 

“I want to make music and have my own radio show.” 

How Boys Crew helped Jack get fit and make new friends

Jack’s 24 years old and lives in London. He’s an RSBC Boys Crew member. 

While he has some degree of vision, Jack uses a cane to get around and does some travelling independently in areas where there are routes that are familiar to him. 

Up until a few years ago, Jack didn’t have much contact with other young people who were blind or partially sighted, and he hadn’t played much sport. As he grew older, though, he wanted to increase his independence and get to know new people. After his dad took him to a sports session with the Palace for Life Foundation hosted by Crystal Palace Football Club – a partner of RSBC – he found that he enjoyed it very much, especially as it meant he could meet other people with vision impairments from different areas around London.  

As a result of the football sessions, Jack started attending activities at RSBC, becoming more and more involved as time went by. The activities included Boys Crew, as well as cooking sessions and not one, but two residential trips. 

Jack feels he’s managed to increase his independence through RSBC and Boys Crew in a way that would have been difficult for him otherwise. He’s improved his physical health and fitness, met people that he’s been able to swap practical tips with around vision impairment, and increased his social circle. 

Not only that, but he’s improved his cookery confidence, so that he can make food that he likes to eat! 

Jack said, “I love coming to RSBC. I’ve learnt so much and had a good time. I’m definitely more confident, and I always look forward to the sessions they hold.” 

Get in touch

If you feel that you, or someone close to you, could benefit from the support that RSBC provides to boys and young men – not just on International Men’s Day, but at any time – please contact us at connections@rsbc.org.uk.