Start the Conversation - Wellbeing Matters is the Devon Cricket Foundation's summer campaign aiming to encourage clubs to start conversations that truly matter.
"What we're looking to do is have these networks where people share best practice ideas, support each other in what they're trying to do within their clubs, and generate that bit of momentum as we go forward."
At the Devon Cricket Foundation, we are keen to support clubs across the county to bring mental wellbeing to the forefront of agendas.
Several clubs, like Ashburton CC, Bridestowe & Belstone CC and Budleigh Salterton CC, are leading the way, supported by cricket-focused charity Opening Up Cricket. Our objective is to grow the network of clubs actively promoting wellbeing within their club environment and across the game.
Players, members, volunteers, and families are the heart of our club community, and we want every club to aspire to take steps to support them and create a positive, supportive environment devoid of any stigma around mental health.
In order to support this, we have created a 'Get started in 5 steps' guide for clubs to commit to:
- Displaying Devon Cricket Foundation and Opening Up Cricket signage at the club, signposting people to support services.
- Promoting mental wellbeing at a club fixture on a match day.
- Supported by a team photo posted on social media showing support and linking to services and other resources on the weekend of 24 & 25 May - Start the Conversation Weekend. (Resource pack below)
- Committing to making 'Mental Health and Wellbeing' a club committee agenda item.
- Asking the question: 'Why have we not discussed this before?'
- "Just putting it out there in the committee, it was amazing the conversation that followed."
- Looking to appoint a 'Club Champion' for wellbeing and supporting them in completing Mental First Aid Training.
- Exploring engaging with mental wellbeing organisations, such as Opening Up Cricket, to enable a Mental Health Workshop for members.
START THE CONVERSATION WEEKEND RESOURCE PACK
Contact
For any support with the Starting the Conversation - Wellbeing Matters campaign at your club or about joining the club network, please contact Antony Cox:
antony.cox@devoncricket.co.uk
07375 323421
