State of Mind

[josie andrews]

The RFL is supporting a groundbreaking campaign to raise awareness of mental health issues and have designated Round 27 of the 2011 Engage Super League season as the State of Mind Round.

State of Mind is a partnership between the State of Mind programme board, Engage Super League clubs, the NHS and charitable organisations and aims to raise awareness of mental health issues within Rugby League.

The RFL's Operations Director Emma Rosewarne said: "The welfare of players at all levels of the sport is one of the RFL's highest priorities and we are pleased to support the State of Mind programme.

"It's important that we work to raise awareness of mental health issues within Rugby League to help tackle these issues and designating the final round of Engage Super League fixtures as the State of Mind Round will help to raise the profile of the programme across the whole sport."

The programme aims to link local Rugby League clubs, both professional and community, in pursuing community wellness, mental health improvement, and raising awareness of mental health issues.

The need for Rugby League to tackle mental health issues was focused by the tragic death of Terry Newton, a very popular figure within the sport who in the months prior to his death in September 2010 encountered many personal problems.

Two former NHS directors and Rugby League enthusiasts, Ernie Benbow and Malcolm Rae, instigated the programme which aims to promote positive mental health in the sport in particular, but also seeks to reach a wider audience and help embed its message across Rugby League communities.

The key benefits expected from this programme include: Raised awareness of and ability to deal with mental health problems through education, awareness and training; Enhanced partnership working amongst key stakeholders of the RFL, players, clubs, coaches and other staff, NHS commissioners and providers and the rugby league communities; Recommendations leading to a sustainability plan for the programme of work.

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