We were delighted to accept an invitation to attend a recent fixture at our local rugby club in order to raise awareness and receive donations.
Several spectators made very complimentary comments about the work of Samaritans but mention too was made of people they knew who had taken their own lives.
One of our messages to the predominantly male fans was the importance of opening up about their mental health. Men notoriously find it difficult to talk about their feelings.
Volunteers Debbie and Lily with Matt Cannon, Coventry RFC's General Manager
Suicide is the biggest killer of men aged under 40 and suicide rates are at their highest amongst males in the over 50 age group. Worryingly, research has shown that 75% of men who had taken their own lives had not had any contact with mental health services.
Our messages therefore are to not keep feelings to yourself and it’s not a sign of weakness to seek help.
We received a warm welcome from the staff and fans at the ground and they made generous donations especially as they were leaving. By this time most were in very high spirits having witnessed a resounding victory over Bedford by 54 points to 19. Well played Cov!
