Survey Finds 70% Of Clubs Affected By Mental Health Issues

Last month the IRFU and Pieta House asked clubs for their opinion and feedback in relation to the Mind Ur Buddy mental health initiative to ensure the programme worked for clubs, in particularly in relation to the timing and format of training days.

The survey confirmed than many clubs have already been affected by mental health issues, with clubs overwhelmingly agreeing that the programme would be of value to clubs and members.

Clubs also advised the IRFU of the preferred format and dates for training. Based on this information the IRFU now invite all clubs to email buddy@irishrugby.ie to advise of their preference of August or September for training.
 
The IRFU will then work with clubs and Pieta House to identify training days and locations.

The survey found:

• Over 90% of clubs said the Mind Ur Buddy programme would be of value to the club and its members.
  
• Almost 70% of clubs and/or club members had been affected by mental health issue and/or suicide.
  
• Clubs would prefer to undertake training in August and September over two mid-week evenings.