15 May, 2023
To mark the start of Mental Health Awareness Week, Badminton England are proud to announce a new partnership with Shout to offer free and confidential mental health text support for anyone in our badminton community.
The service can be used at any time by texting “BE” to 85258.
If you’re feeling anxious, lonely, overwhelmed, stressed or not quite yourself, Shout’s volunteers are there for you any time of day or night, 365 days a year.
The goal of the text conversation is to help you reach a place of calm, with a plan of how to support yourself going forwards. As well as listening, Shout volunteers may provide further resources or tools to help you get more expert support.
Your conversation will only end when the volunteer is sure you are calm and feeling better.
Having this partnership with Shout makes instant mental health support more accessible for the badminton community.
The service is anonymous, text the word “BE” to 85258.
This partnership has been driven by the Badminton England Safeguarding Manager, Victoria Brown.
Victoria said: “At Badminton England we want to embed safeguarding and wellbeing support for everyone, at all levels and across all ages.
“Launching this service during Mental Health Awareness Week is a fantastic opportunity to shine the spotlight on supporting the mental wellbeing of all those playing, working and volunteering in our sport.
“We wanted something that was appropriate for anyone – at any age, whatever their level of need.
“We hope that with access to Shout’s free, 24/7 text service, those who need support will feel comfortable to reach out and start a conversation – whenever they need it.”
Speaking about the partnership, Henry Mace, Head of Commissioned Partnerships, Mental Health Innovations said: “We are delighted to be partnering with Badminton England to support those in the badminton community struggling with their mental health.
“From anxiety, loneliness or depression through to self-harm or suicidal thoughts, Shout provides a unique service for people who might have no other means of mental health support.”
