Rugby League Cares and State of Mind Sport have received a grant from the Big Lottery to deliver a two-year pilot to engage over 1,800 at risk men living in some of the most deprived communities in the North of England.
Men will be supported to access a 10-week programme which will highlight the continual comparisons between the everyday challenges of fans and that of professional rugby league players. Each of the 10 week ‘fixtures’ will be delivered by past players who have experienced mental health problems and healthcare professionals.
The programme will help men improve mental fitness, develop new coping strategies, build resilience, recognise the extent of any problems they may have and build their social support networks.
The programme will be closely linked to the game of rugby league; utilising terminology, past and current players, stadiums and club branding to encourage men to engage.
Target Audience:
The programme will be targeted at men (fans and non-fans) aged 16+, who are at risk of experiencing mental health issues.
If you would like to sign up to this initiative or find out more please email joanne.shepherd@salfordreddevils.com