Tackling loneliness within the racing and breeding industries is the subject of a new short film produced by Racing Welfare in conjunction with Equine Productions to mark Mental Health Awareness Week, which runs nationwide from May 9-15.
In addition to the film, Racing Welfare have distributed green ribbons on racecourses for people to wear to raise awareness and show support for Mental Health Awareness Week.
With one in four UK adults having felt lonely due to the coronavirus pandemic, Racing Welfare has increased the support available this year. Demand for its services continues to grow and between January and the end of March 2022, the charity supported 1,236 individuals across the racing industry, a 27% increase compared to 2021, with mental health services consistently being in high demand.
Racing Welfare will cover a number of themes over the course of Mental Health Awareness Week, including loneliness and mental health, tackling loneliness in retired staff, online tools to combat loneliness, and tackling loneliness in younger people.
Workplaces across the horseracing and thoroughbred breeding industries will be encouraged throughout the week to set aside time during their working day to take part in the #TeaAndTalk initiative. The initiative promotes an awareness of not just your own mental wellbeing, but the wellbeing of others around you with simple yet impactful action.
The charity will also be promoting the launch of its virtual conference to be held on Monday, September 19, which will feature presentations from speakers discussing health and wellbeing at work. Tickets go on sale on Thursday at racingwelfare.co.uk.
Racing Welfare provides 24/7 support on 0800 6300 443. For more information see racingwelfare.co.uk.
