Northampton Saints Foundation, Northampton Town Community Trust, and the Steelbacks Foundation are working with physical activity and wellbeing charity Northamptonshire Sport to launch a new project called ‘Team-Mates’.
Launching next week, Team-Mates supports men living with poor mental wellbeing, mental ill-health, social isolation and potential risk of suicide. Team-Mates offers an early intervention programme using walking sports and mental health support sessions. The new programme will be delivered in three parts, to include:
- Weekly walking sports at each of the club venues, along with monthly mental health sessions.
- Awareness raising to reduce the stigma of mental illness in men and increase the awareness and importance of physical activity to improve mental wellbeing.
- Promoting good mental health across the sports club network with targeted mental health training for club volunteers
The walking sports sessions will kick off next week, starting 3 February. These sessions offer a fun and relaxed way to enjoy a slower-paced version of popular sports. Whether a beginner or someone with prior experience, walking sports are perfect for all levels and provide a great opportunity to stay active while meeting new people.
Everyone is welcome, regardless of ability. Each one-hour session will feature a different sport – either rugby, cricket, or football – depending on the venue. After the session, there's time for a hot drink and a chance to socialise with fellow Team-Mates.
The sessions will take place at the three high-performance venues: Click here for more details.
The monthly mental health education and support sessions start on the week beginning the 24th of February and happen after the walking sports sessions at the same venues, which include: High Performance Centre, cinch stadium at Franklin’s Gardens (Home of Northampton Saints RFC), Northants County Cricket Club Indoor School, The County Ground (Home of the Steelbacks), and Sixfields Stadium (home of Northampton Town FC).
Jordan Letts, CEO at Northampton Saints Foundation, said: “This is a new and exciting venture, and we’re keen to work with the other two professional clubs and Northamptonshire Sport.
“One in four people will experience mental health struggles in the UK. Research indicates that one in five rugby athletes wouldn’t seek help from anyone if they had a problem or were upset. That’s a third of any rugby team. Even high-profile rugby professionals like Jonny Wilkinson suffered from anxiety due to the pressure he put on himself during the World Cup, which then spiralled into depression.
“Rugby teams often form close bonds, with players supporting and encouraging each other on and off the field. This can help players feel less isolated and more connected to others, improving mental health.”
Jordan Letts, CEO at Northampton Saints Foundation
Phillip Smith, CEO at Northampton Town FC Community Trust, added: “We are delighted to work on this joint project with the other clubs and Northamptonshire Sport.
“In collaboration, we want to impact change in the mental health landscape from the grassroots upwards. Football clubs are in the strongest possible position to influence fans positively around the education and implementation of mental health awareness and self-care. Joining forces with the two other professional clubs in the county will help us amplify our messages and awareness amongst more men.
“There have been many top footballers who have suffered from mental health issues. For example, Tony Adams, a former professional and manager, has opened up about his struggles with mental health and addiction. Battling depression and alcoholism eventually led him to seek professional help.”
Patricia Hankins, Community and Partnerships Manager at the Steelbacks Foundation, said: “The Steelbacks are keen to be involved in this project working alongside the other two professional clubs and Northamptonshire Sport.
“There is growing recognition that cricket can be seen as a social prescription for mental health and physical wellbeing. This ancient sport known for its rich history and widespread appeal has evolved into more than just a game. The diverse appeal of the sport ensures that people from all backgrounds and different walks of life can participate and thrive, fostering a sense of community and belonging. The social aspect of cricket is also crucial for mental wellbeing as it combats loneliness and promotes social interaction.”
Jackie Browne, Strategic Director at Northamptonshire Sport, is coordinating the project and added: “Northamptonshire Sport is thrilled to work alongside the three clubs on this exciting new initiative. The Team-Mates project will utilise the unique appeal and engagement of the clubs locally.
“This new approach will reach men as an early intervention to support their mental health through weekly walking sports, monthly mental health chats and education sessions.”
Jackie Brown, Strategic Director at Northamptonshire Sport
“The three professional clubs are key assets within Northamptonshire and have massive reach within the local community. The charitable trusts/foundations work alongside their professional teams and use the power of sport and the values of the professional team to inspire, actively support, educate and develop the health and wellbeing of the local community.”
The Team-Mates project is being funded by West Northamptonshire Council as part of a commitment to promote good mental health and wellbeing, for people who live, work and study in West Northamptonshire. They work in collaboration with a range of organisations, such as the NHS, the VCSE sector, and other partners to deliver services which benefit the local community.
For more information about the Team-Mates project, please contact: [email protected] or CLICK HERE.
Next Home Match
