Football clubs in WA who have members struggling with mental health issues are to get access to a crucial and potentially life-saving free support program.
Football West is partnering with leading community mental health organisation Richmond Wellbeing through its Bouncing Back program, which will help clubs identify and provide support to any members who may be doing it tough.
The four-part program is funded by the Western Australian Mental Health Commission and is aimed at assisting anyone involved at a club, from players and coaches to administrators and parents.
Bouncing Back Program Coordinator Paul Peacock says he is really excited to partner with Football West to provide these vital services for the more than 250 clubs in Western Australia.
“We are confident the partnership between Bouncing Back and Football West can provide quality mental health education and support not only in the metropolitan area but throughout the regions across our great state,” he said.
“Together I believe that we can make a difference and start the conversation about positive mental health.”
Football West Chief Football Officer Jamie Harnwell says the organisation is looking forward to promoting the Bouncing Back program to clubs.
“Mental wellbeing is something we should all value and the fact suicide is the biggest killer of men in the 18 to 40 demographic highlights its relevance to so many in the WA football community,” he said.
“Bouncing Back will offer our clubs the tools to work with their members on mental health awareness. I know they will appreciate the chance to take advantage of this free, four-part training program.”
For more information or to get involved visit the Bouncing Back website at https://www.rw.org.au/bouncing-back-program/ or contact Paul Peacock on 0428 767 552.
