The Minister for Sports is urging football clubs across Wales to
take up a mental health training course to better support teams,
coaches, and players.
Football clubs across Wales can access an online course delivered
by Mind Cymru and UK Coaching to increase their mental health
awareness.
Around 200 clubs have completed the e-learning course, but there
are plenty of spaces still available.
The course equips coaches with knowledge and confidence to
understand and support people experiencing mental health
difficulties. It helps create positive environments where
everyone can enjoy being active and feel encouraged to
participate.
Minister for Sports, said:
"From my own involvement with football clubs in Deeside, I know
that they are the heart of our communities and coaches are often
the first to notice when someone is struggling. Mental health
matters every day, but I know that as we approach Christmas, this
period can be particularly challenging for some people.
"The practical skills coaches gain from this course to support
their players and teams can be lifesaving. I'm pleased that
around 200 clubs have already accessed this valuable resource,
but I'm urging clubs across Wales to take up the opportunity
because it can make a real difference to people's lives.”
Minister for Mental Health and Wellbeing, said:
“Football clubs are trusted spaces in our communities where
people of all ages come together. When coaches understand mental
health and feel confident having those conversations, it creates
an environment where people feel safe to open up.
“This training is an important step in breaking down stigma and
ensuring no one faces mental health challenges alone. I encourage
all clubs to take up this opportunity."
Sport Wales is developing a longer-term preventative approach
that addresses stigma and risk factors whilst creating
environments supporting positive mental health across the entire
sports sector.
The initiative forms part of wider efforts to ensure sports clubs
can provide supportive spaces where people feel valued and
included.
Football clubs interested in accessing the training should
contact the Football Association of Wales for details on how to
register for the free e-learning course.
Notes to editors
- More information on the training is available on the UK
Coaching website
- Anyone needing support with mental health can ring the
24-hour CALL Helpline: 0800 132 737
- For urgent support please call the NHS on 111 and press 2
- For mental health information and support in Welsh and
English, visit Information and support
- The anonymous Samaritans helpline is available 24/7 on 116
123 and their Welsh helpline is available everyday 7pm-11pm on
0808 164 0123
- Anyone who is affected by suicide, the National Advisory and
Liaison Service Cymru offer free and confidential support to
people in Wales: 08000 487742
