A powerful debate in Parliament of the United Kingdom this week has put a spotlight on an issue that sits at the heart of our mission at MAN&BOY: the urgent need for strong, positive male role models in the lives of young people.

During a Westminster debate, MPs discussed whether the Government should appoint a dedicated Minister for Men and Boys. However, beyond the political structure, what truly stood out was a growing cross-party recognition that too many boys are growing up without the guidance, affirmation and steady presence of positive men.

A Generation Searching for Direction

Opening the debate, Luke Evans pointed to stark evidence: boys are falling behind in education, are more likely to be excluded from school and face higher risks of mental health struggles and suicide. Behind those statistics lies something deeper, a crisis of identity, belonging and purpose.

Several MPs highlighted how many young men lack consistent male role models at home, in schools and in their communities. Without examples of healthy masculinity, men who model responsibility, empathy and resilience, boys can turn instead to harmful online influences or disengage entirely from education and society.

This is not about blaming families or diminishing the needs of women and girls. It is about recognising that boys, too, have specific developmental needs and that positive male influence can change lives.

Why Role Models Matter

Research consistently shows that when boys have:

• A trusted adult male they can talk to

• Male teachers, mentors or coaches

• Visible examples of responsible fatherhood

• Community leaders who embody constructive masculinity

…they are more likely to stay engaged in school, regulate their emotions, build healthy relationships and envision a hopeful future.

In the debate, MPs spoke about boys who feel overlooked or misunderstood, particularly in classrooms where learning styles may not align with how many boys naturally engage. Without mentorship and encouragement, small setbacks can become long-term disengagement.  Positive male role models do not just “improve behaviour”, they foster aspiration and change lives. 

From Discussion to Action

While opinions differed on whether a new ministerial role is the solution, there was broad agreement that boys’ outcomes deserve focused attention, especially in mental health, education and early intervention.

At MAN&BOY, we believe the conversation must now move beyond awareness toward practical action.  This is where we come in.  Our method goes beyond the community role modelling highlighted in the reporting and focuses on helping men be positive mentors to the boys in their lives.  This key relationship benefits the boy, the whole family unit and the wider community.  

A Cultural Moment 

This parliamentary debate reflects something bigger: the country is beginning to acknowledge that supporting boys is not controversial, it is necessary.  If we want safer communities, stronger families and more resilient young people, we must invest in boys today.

Read the whole debate here