Equestrian trainers are being asked to come together to raise awareness of the importance of talking about mental health and help “eradicate the stigma”.
Riders Minds is looking for 1,000 coaches to take part in the “coaching for change” campaign next month. Each is asked to donate an amount of time of their choosing, hosting a training clinic, with proceeds going to charity.
Riders Minds was founded in 2019 by the late event runner Matthew Wright and his wife Victoria, with the support of several companies and with the British Grooms Association and the Equestrian Employers Association acting as consultants. The award-winning organization, which gained charity status in February 2022, offers a free online resource designed to improve and support the mental health and well-being of jockeys across the sport.
A spokesperson for Riders Minds said the new campaign, which coincides with World Mental Health Day on October 10, will also raise awareness of the importance of talking about mental health and the support available through the organization’s website. charity, the text line and the free confidential telephone service.
“We are incredibly proud of the work Riders Minds has done so far, but we know there are still some riders who don’t know us or feel like they can’t reach us,” he said.
“Coaches are often a focal point in their own community, and with their help, we can continue to break down any stigma around mental health and educate more people about the resources that are available to everyone.”
The charity requires trainers to be fully insured, and sessions can take place at any time during October, mounted, on the ground or via online learning, at any equestrian venue.
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Credit: Future
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