INTERNATIONAL MEN’S DAY 2025

This International Men’s Day Franks Portlock is proud to recognise the positive male role models who inspire others through their dedication, leadership, and community spirit.

The UK theme for International Men’s Day 2025 is “Supporting Men and Boys” — a celebration globally on November 19^th of the positive value men and boys bring to the world, while raising awareness of their well-being and promoting open, positive conversations around men, manhood and masculinity.

At Franks Portlock, we’re proud to recognise the men within our organisation who demonstrate integrity, leadership and compassion every day — driving growth, innovation and excellence across our business while striving to be positive role models at work, at home, and in their communities.

What started with two directors, Stephen Portlock and Phil Franks, working out of a small North-East unit has grown into a nationwide operation. Over the last two decades, Franks Portlock has evolved into one of the UK’s leading asbestos and environmental management consultancies — now employing more than 100 staff and operating from offices in Sunderland, Fife, Sellafield (Cumbria), London, the North West and the Midlands.

Our services span asbestos consultancy, inspection, testing, training and management, and in 2020 we expanded to include a dedicated water hygiene division.

“We’ve had steady growth over the past two decades,” says co-founder Phil Franks, “and it’s thanks to the passion and hard work of our people. The dedication shown by our team — many of whom have been with us for years — continues to shape our strategy, develop innovative solutions and drive our commitment to excellence.”

Supporting Men, Boys and Communities Beyond the Workplace

At Franks Portlock, we believe positive role models aren’t defined solely by what they achieve professionally, but by how they uplift others. That’s why we’re proud to support initiatives that make a meaningful difference in our local communities.

This year, our consultancy has helped grassroots sports thrive — becoming the official kit sponsor for the talented Horden U9 Marras, part of the Horden Community Welfare Football Club and Junior Academy, helping nurture teamwork, confidence and community pride among young players.

We’ve also supported 14-year-old climbing prodigy Will Duncan, who began climbing as a hobby and is now part of the GB Climbing England Regional Squad, competing nationally and inspiring other young athletes to aim high.

And in the boxing ring, our sponsorship has helped 16-year-old Bobby Winn access the essential equipment he needed for his first competitive bout. Bobby began training with Spennymoor Boxing Academy to build confidence and fitness — and now shows great promise as he works toward amateur and potentially professional titles.

Beyond our direct community partnerships, Franks Portlock continues to champion corporate social responsibility through collaborations with local charities such as Love Amelia, which provides vital support to families in need, and the North East housing association believe housing.

“Supporting families in our community is something we’re deeply passionate about,” says Franks Portlock Director Stephen Portlock. “Through volunteering, our team has been able to provide tangible support to those who need it most. It’s been incredibly rewarding to contribute to such meaningful causes.”

As we mark International Men’s Day 2025, we celebrate all our employees — and the men who, through their work, character, and compassion, make a difference every single day.

Stephen says: “The dedication and effort that goes into the day-to-day operations in all areas of our business and across every one of our regional offices, is reflected in the hard work and commitment of the team. They have been instrumental in shaping the company’s strategy, developing solutions, and driving our commitment to excellence and strengthened our market position.”

Stephen adds: “On behalf of Phil and myself, I want to extend a sincere thank you to all the team at Frank’s Portlock Consulting. We value and appreciate everything you do.”

For more information about International Men’s Day and events taking place in your area, click here.