Nationally and internationally, we are facing a mental health crisis.
In England alone, a staggering 1 in 6 people will experience negative mental health every week and only 50% of these actually talk about it (Mental Health Foundation, 2024).
1 in 5 people have suicidal thoughts
1 in 14 people self-harm
1 in 15 people attempt suicide. (Mind, 2024)
Anecdotally, in our work we hear increasing reports of rugby players of varying ages taking their own lives.
It’s not just about the statistics though, it’s about real people and real experiences, which is what the foundation mental health charity, Brave Mind, was built upon. Mental health as a topic has always been seen as a big taboo, and today it’s a huge challenge to shift this mentality to help those struggling with their mental health and recognise when someone around you might need help.
Responding to this and through his own personal challenges, Simon Trower, founder of Brave Mind, decided it was time to #kickofftheconversation and drive a change within rugby.
As a former rugby player himself, he knows the game is a great release, but with a lack of support in the community, the physical aspect isn’t enough, people need people. Using rugby as the vehicle to drive the message and engage with the community, with the game’s values at the heart of the charity’s work, Brave Mind’s influence is about saving and improving lives by normalising conversations around mental health.
Through in-person bespoke workshops, and training across the UK, Brave Mind is helping to educate the rugby community. The sessions are tailored for players, coaches, managers, staff and volunteers, with the ambition to help them feel more confident talking about mental health and supporting those around them.
That’s why Canterbury has partnered with Brave Mind on this mission. Together, it’s time to get people talking and make a positive impact.
Stuart Crossman, Senior Marketing Manager at Canterbury said:
"At Canterbury, we believe in the power of rugby in bringing people together, both on and off the field. Our partnership with Brave Mind represents a commitment to breaking down the barriers around mental health to help ensure our community thrives.”
Simon Trower, Founder of Brave Mind said:
“The partnership between Canterbury and Brave Mind is crucial in empowering and educating the rugby community to drive meaningful change and normalise the conversation around mental health. Through this collaboration, Canterbury's extensive reach within rugby will enable Brave Mind to connect with people at all levels of the sport—from grassroots to university and college rugby. Together, they will create a supportive environment where mental health discussions are embraced, fostering a culture of openness, understanding, and resilience within the rugby community.”
Head to their website to find out how you can get involved and be part of the Brave Mind community: https://www.bravemind.co.uk/.
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