HARLEQUINS & MOVEMBER IN MENTAL HEALTH DRIVE

Gallagher Premiership team Harlequins FC has signed a three-way agreement with the Harlequins and Movember Foundations to implement a major mental health initiative aimed at rugby fans.

The launch of the partnership took place as part of activities marking World Suicide Prevention Day. It saw Quins players participate in the Movember Foundation’s ‘Be a Man of More Words’ campaign. 

Stars Dave Ward, Danny Care, Joe Marler and Mark Lambert contributed to a video encouraging men across the UK to open up and speak more about their mental health. The players talked openly and honestly about their own personal experiences, addressing issues of anger, anxiety, depression and suicide.

The three-way initiative is designed to address the issues around men’s mental health and provide information and guidance on what to do when  health suffers. 

Harlequins plans to run fundraising campaigns to support investment in projects aimed at parents, coaches and young men, all to be delivered through the Harlequins Foundation.

Owen Sharp, CEO of the Movember Foundation commented: “We are delighted to be announcing this partnership after working closely with Harlequins in an unofficial capacity for many years.

“In working together, we aim to positively impact the lives of the many men and women that support Harlequins and the wider community.”

Marc Leckie, head of the Harlequins Foundation said: “As a Foundation we are committed to making a positive change in our community’s health, both locally and globally. 

“We are confident that this partnership will inspire, educate and equip men to invest in their own wellbeing.”

Quins player Mark Lambert added: “There is a stereotype of rugby players being tough, strong, silent types, and there is now a chance for us to challenge stigma around men sharing their thoughts and being open about their health. 

“All of our players at Harlequins are proud to support this partnership and understand the importance of being a man of more words to become a happier, healthier person.”

The Movember Foundation is the leading charity dedicated to changing the face of men's health in the UK and around the world.