On International Men’s Day, South East Technological University (SETU) is proud to celebrate the researchers whose work is improving the health and wellbeing of men across Ireland.
With the National Centre for Men’s Health based at SETU, the university has become a recognised leader in shaping policy, designing community-focused programmes, and advancing research that responds to men’s health needs at regional, national and international levels.
Supporting men to live healthier lives
Dr Paula Carroll’s work in the field of men’s health continues to make a significant difference in communities. As a co-founder of the Irish Men’s Sheds Health Initiative and a long-standing advocate for gender-sensitive health promotion, Dr Carroll plays a central role in designing and evaluating programmes that meet men where they are.
A key example is Men on the Move, a national initiative that encourages men to become more physically active through accessible, locally delivered group-based programmes. Developed through research insights and community partnerships, Men on the Move supports men to build fitness, confidence and social connections in a welcoming environment. SETU’s ongoing evaluation work in this area helps inform best practice in men’s health promotion across Ireland.
Using sport to build connection and wellbeing
SETU’s collaboration with the Football Cooperative is another powerful example of research driving real social impact. The Football Cooperative, established as a social enterprise, uses informal ‘pick-up football’ sessions to bring men together, reduce isolation and foster positive mental health. The initiative has grown from a single site to a network of active locations, supported by SETU research showing a high social return on investment.
This partnership reflects SETU’s commitment to inclusive and community-centred research, highlighting how simple, well-designed interventions can create meaningful change.
Advancing international research on men’s health
Dr Noel Richardson and Dr Aisling McGrath of SETU's Department of Sport and Exercise Science, both leading figures within the National Centre for Men’s Health, have played key roles in shaping the global conversation on men’s health through their work with Movember. Their research addresses some of the most pressing issues facing men today, including mental health, suicide prevention, and health literacy.
Through international collaborations, evidence-based policy work, and large-scale evaluations, their contributions help ensure that men’s health programmes are grounded in research, sensitive to diverse needs and capable of driving lasting impact.
I am proud that SETU is home to researchers who are leading evidence-based, community-focused initiatives that make a real difference in people’s lives."
Professor Marie Claire Van Hout Vice President for Research, Innovation and Impact, SETU
A national centre of excellence
As the home of the National Centre for Men’s Health, SETU brings together researchers, practitioners and partners who share a commitment to improving men’s lives. The centre supports national policy development, leads pioneering studies, and works closely with community organisations, health bodies and international networks.
Its work reinforces SETU’s mission to address real societal challenges, support healthier communities and foster research that delivers impact across the region and beyond.
Prof Marie Claire Van Hout, Vice President for Research, Innovation and Impact at SETU, said, “Men’s health is a critical public health priority, and I am proud that SETU is home to researchers who are leading evidence-based, community-focused initiatives that make a real difference in people’s lives. Through our partnerships, our national leadership and our commitment to impactful research, SETU is helping to create healthier futures for men across Ireland.”
