That sense of connection can play an important role in supporting positive mental wellbeing. Being part of a team and having people around you can help reduce isolation, build resilience and create a supportive environment where people can feel comfortable asking for help when they need it.
We all have a role to play in creating positive and supportive rugby environments.
Sometimes, a simple conversation can make a meaningful difference. Taking the time to ask someone “How are you doing?” or “How are you feeling?”, and giving them the space to talk and listening without judgement, can help someone feel heard and supported.
You don’t need to have all the answers. Knowing where to find the right information and support is just as important.
The IRFU has a range of resources available to help players, coaches, volunteers, clubs and everyone involved in rugby understand and support mental health, wellbeing and safeguarding.
Mental Health and Wellbeing Resources
The IRFU’s resources provide practical information and guidance to help clubs and individuals recognise the importance of mental health and wellbeing, start supportive conversations and know where to look for further help.
The Mental Health Toolkit offers practical guidance for starting conversations around mental health and helping direct people towards appropriate professional support.
The One Good Coach programme also provides resources to help coaches understand their role in supporting the wellbeing of the people they coach and creating positive environments within rugby.
Explore the IRFU’s mental health resources:
Safeguarding in Rugby
Creating a positive rugby environment also means making sure everyone involved in the game is safe, supported and treated with respect.
Safeguarding is the responsibility of everyone involved in rugby. The IRFU provides information, guidance and resources to help clubs and individuals understand their safeguarding responsibilities and support safe environments for children and young people.
You can find the IRFU’s safeguarding information, guidance and resources here.
When something difficult happens
Clubs are communities, and from time to time they may face difficult or challenging situations.
The IRFU’s Critical Incident Document provides guidance to help clubs respond appropriately when a critical incident occurs, supporting clubs to consider the wellbeing of those affected and identify appropriate sources of help.
This, alongside the Mental Health Toolkit and other Health and Wellbeing resources, is available through the Spirit of Rugby Resource Library.
Supporting a healthy rugby community
Whether you are a player, coach, referee, volunteer, parent, club official or supporter, there are resources available to help you contribute to a positive rugby environment.
From starting a conversation about mental health, to supporting someone who may be struggling, understanding safeguarding responsibilities or knowing what to do when a difficult incident occurs, the IRFU’s Spirit of Rugby resources are there to help.
Take a look at the resources available and share them with others in your club. You never know when a conversation, a piece of information or simply knowing where to turn might make a difference.
Explore the IRFU’s resources for Health, Wellbeing, Mental Health and Safeguarding:
Spirit of Rugby Resource Library
Mental Health Resources
One Good Coach
Safeguarding