At Royston Rugby Club, we believe mental health and wellbeing are as important as physical health. Rugby is a sport built on teamwork, trust, and support, and we strive to ensure that our players, members, and their families know they are never alone.

We understand that life can bring challenges, and it's vital to talk, listen, and seek help when needed. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed, facing a tough time, or just want to maintain positive mental fitness, support is available.

Anybody in immediate danger of harming themselves or anybody else should immediately call 999 or visit their nearest A & E department.

Rugby-Specific Mental Health Support

These resources are tailored to the rugby community and offer guidance and help to players, coaches, and families:

JOCA	A rugby-focused mental health service offering group work and support. Reach out to JOCA for immediate assistance or to arrange group sessions:	Email: joca@welwynrfc.co.uk; Website: jocarugby.co.uk
BraveMind	Another rugby-specific service with excellent feedback. Visit their website for resources and support:	Website: bravemind.co.uk
LooseHeadz	Focused on building long-term mental fitness through simple daily steps. Explore their 7-step guide to wellbeing:	Website: looseheadz.co.uk/pages/7-steps

Bereavement Support

Coping with the loss of a loved one is never easy. These services provide support for individuals and families during difficult times:

Hertfordshire County Council Bereavement Support Services	Information on local bereavement services across Hertfordshire:	Website: https://www.hertsandwestessex.ics.nhs.uk/your-health-and-care/support/end-of-life-care/east-and-north-hertfordshire-directory-of-service-for-bereavement-care-and-support/
Cruse Bereavement Care	Professional bereavement support across England, Wales, and Northern Ireland:	Phone: 0808 808 1677; Website: https://www.cruse.org.uk

Crisis Support

If you or someone you know is struggling to cope, especially with thoughts of suicide, immediate help is available:

SHOUT	A confidential 24/7 crisis text service. Simply text SHOUT to 85258 for support.	- Website: https://giveusashout.org/get-help/how-shout-works/
Papyrus HOPELINE	Specifically for those dealing with suicidal thoughts:	- Phone: 0800 068 4141; - Website: https://www.papyrus-uk.org
Samaritans	For anyone facing a difficult time or needing immediate support:	- Phone: 116 123 (Free, available 24/7); - Website: https://www.samaritans.org/how-we-can-help/contact-samaritan/

Long-Term Support

For those seeking longer-term individual support, professional services are available:

Herts Partnership NHS Trust Talking Therapies Service (IAPT)

Self-refer for therapy to address anxiety, depression, and other challenges.

Website: Herts NHS Talking Therapies

You Are Not Alone

We encourage everyone in our rugby family to reach out if they need help. Whether it’s through a conversation with a teammate, a coach, or one of these services, talking about mental health can be the first step toward healing and strength.

Let’s continue to build a club where looking after one another extends beyond the pitch.