Mitre Group Launches Mental Health Training for Sport Sector

Lords Cricket Ground to host Mitre’s first intake of Mental Health First Aid Students from Middlesex CCC

This month, Mitre Group will launch a brand-new programme of mental health training aimed specifically at the sports sector. These courses will provide employees within sports clubs and organisations with the skills they need to become qualified Mental Health Champions and First Aiders.

The new programme, delivered by an accredited Mental Health First Aid England (MHFA England) instructor, will first launch in partnership with Middlesex County Cricket Club at Lords Cricket Ground.

Staff from the club will gain an in-depth understanding of mental health and the factors that can affect wellbeing, as well as the practical skills they need to spot, step-in and support colleagues experiencing difficulties. They’ll be given the knowledge required to sign-post relevant help and support and be ambassadors for good mental health practise in the workplace.

Katie Berry, Director of Participation & Safeguarding for Middlesex County Cricket Club, comments: “The Mental Health First Aid course will be a fantastic addition to the training we offer. It’s really important that we create an open and supportive workplace for all our employees. Equipping champions within the club with the vital skills and knowledge they need to support their colleagues is a really positive step that demonstrates our commitment to the health and wellbeing of our staff and wider community partners.”

Mitre’s programme will be headed up by its MHFA instructor Tommy Lowther. Lowther brings with him a wealth of experience in both mental health support and sport, having previously founded Sporting Force – a charity that supports ex-service men and women through placements in the sports industry.

“I’m really pleased to be part of this new and important initiative with Mitre,” comments Tommy Lowther, MHFA Instructor at Mitre Group. “There is so much potential for sports clubs to be leaders in good mental health practise. It’s great that high-profile sports club like Middlesex CCC are taking big steps towards protecting the mental wellbeing of their employees. The camaraderie typical of sports clubs is a great starting point to talk about mental health and I can’t wait to see the impact of this programme.”

Recognising the importance of talking more about mental health in sport, Mitre is also incorporating its Mental Health First Aid course into its existing apprenticeship programmes, ensuring all its students enter the workplace equipped with the skills they need to thrive and support others.