Simplyhealth RugbySafe Mental Health Campaign
At a time when many people report feeling anxious about the effect of Covid-19 on their lives and the support normally offered by community rugby clubs missing during lockdown, the RFU and Simplyhealth are working to improve mental health awareness and to guide those who need it to appropriate help.
Simplyhealth, the RFU’s healthcare partner and lead sponsor of the RugbySafe programme, have teamed up with former England captain Dylan Hartley and David Beeney, whose work is dedicated to reducing the stigma around mental health, to deliver two mental wellbeing webinars, one for players aged 18-24 and one for adult rugby club members.
The first, aimed at young players, takes place on March 18th. It will encourage those taking part to consider their own mental health and that of their team mates and look at how the rugby community can play a meaningful role. A second webinar aimed at the adult club members will follow on April 28th.
These webinars kick off a campaign where Simplyhealth will support the RFU in providing advice on mental health awareness and correct signposting for those who need it. The aim is to encourage a culture in the rugby community where members understand and talk to those who may be struggling with mental health issues.
There will be a focus on preventing problems developing through better identification of issues, improved and appropriate communication around the topic of mental health, and clear pathways for people who need professional support.
As rugby returns there’s never been a better time to look at how the rugby family can support each other and make a difference.
Register for webinar 1: ‘Mental Wellbeing – Keeping the Rugby Community Healthy’.
