Jon Pearce: Growing a moustache, starting a conversation: why I’m taking part in Movember

This November, I’m putting down the razor and taking part in Movember to raise awareness of men’s health, mental wellbeing and the importance of looking after ourselves.

My involvement with Movember grew from conversations around my campaign to improve paternity leave for dads. Through the Dad Shift campaign, I’ve been working with organisations and businesses to make sure fathers have more time and support when welcoming a new child.

We’ve secured an important step forward, with self-employed dads set to receive paternity pay for the first time. But there is still more to do. I’m continuing to campaign for six weeks of statutory paternity leave, because giving dads time to be there for their families matters.

This is also a men's mental health issue. Becoming a parent brings huge changes, and dads deserve the opportunity to support their families without feeling pressured to put their own wellbeing aside.

As a dad to three daughters, I know how important it is to be there for the people you love. But being there for others also means looking after yourself. We need to challenge the idea that men should simply get on with things, keep their worries to themselves and avoid asking for help.

Thankfully, there are fantastic organisations working to change that, including locally brilliant initiatives like Mentell and Andy’s Man Club. They provide safe spaces for men to talk, share experiences and find support without fear of judgement.

Last year, I visited Andy’s Men’s Shed in Whaley Bridge, which supports men's mental health by tackling loneliness and social isolation. Meeting weekly at the Transhipment Warehouse, men can make and restore items, learn new skills or simply have a chat. More than 70 men have already come through its doors, and everyone is welcome.

Sometimes, having somewhere to go, something to do and someone to talk to can make all the difference.

Movember also shines a light on prostate and testicular cancer, encouraging men to understand their bodies, recognise changes and seek medical advice when something doesn't feel right. Getting checked could save your life.

I’m hoping my moustache will help get people talking throughout November. You don’t have to grow one or make a donation to get involved. Simply checking in with someone, having an honest conversation or encouraging a friend to seek help can make a real difference.

We need to keep breaking down the barriers that stop men talking about their health, while making sure dads have the time and support they need to be there for their families.

If you see me sporting a rather questionable moustache this month, you’ll know why!