Mental Health Champions

 Mental Health Champions, Helena Youde, Claire Gallagher, Rachel Nolan, Matt Polson and James Clay.  

Claire Gallagher

James Clay

Rachel Nolan

Matt Polson

Helena Youde

 

We wish to be recognised as the Almost Athletes' Mental Health Champions, advocating the normalisation of conversations around mental health by holding regular running-related events and camp gains which focus on a variety of relevant issues.

Between the five of us, four are trained in Mental Health First Aid, three are LIRFs, and we will all be fully recognised as Mental Health Champions by England Athletics.

Whilst we would be unable to offer personal counselling services, we are committed to supporting the wellbeing of club members, encouraging people to talk about their own mental health, and offering support by guiding them towards the appropriate professional services when needed. 

The events will be suitable for people of all ages and running abilities, with the potential to extend invitations to other clubs and non-members. Following a highly successful Run and Talk event for World Mental Health Day in October 2018, we have registered a second one on 6th February, to mark Time to Talk Day. 

Examples of possible events following this include a fancy dress social event for Red Nose Day, an orienteering event around Cheltenham based on the 5 Ways to Wellbeing, and an evening of friendly competition at the PoW stadium. We would ensure that all events comply with any conditions set by Almost Athletes, local councils and/or other organisations.

Thank you,

Helena, Claire, Rachel, Matt and James.