We are proud to stand alongside Newcastle Red Bulls, PREM Rugby, and official charity partner, Mental Health UK to launch Bravery Starts Here – a powerful season-long campaign harnessing the strength and solidarity of the rugby community.
Timed to coincide with World Mental Health Day on Friday 10 October, the initiative draws on rugby’s unique culture to challenge stigma, break down barriers, and give people the tools they need to be brave – both on and off the pitch.
From making a tackle in a high-pressure match to finding the courage to ask for help during a difficult time, Bravery Starts Here celebrates every act of courage, no matter how big or small.
“Rugby has an incredible ability to bring people together and spark positive change,” said Charlie Roberts, Income Generation Manager at Newcastle Rugby Foundation. “Bravery isn’t only about what happens on the pitch – it’s in the everyday choices to speak up, support one another, and protect your mental wellbeing.”
Together, PREM Rugby and Mental Health UK are committed to tackling the causes of poor mental health and removing the barriers that prevent people from living life to the fullest.
“Our partnership with Mental Health UK demonstrates our commitment to using rugby as a force for good beyond the game,” added Laylla Stanley, Strategic Lead – Social Impact and D&I at PREM Rugby. “Bravery isn’t just found in tackles and tries – it’s in the daily decisions we make to care for ourselves and each other.”
More than a game
From Kingston Park to community fields across the North East, rugby has always been more than a sport – it’s a network of support, resilience and camaraderie. Rivals on the pitch, friends for life off it.
We recognise that every person in our rugby family faces different challenges. The campaign will help normalise conversations about mental health, encourage early support-seeking, and show that no one has to face difficulties alone.
Everything we do is grounded in our core pillars of building belonging and boosting wellbeing. These principles shape our approach to mental health – creating inclusive spaces where people feel they belong and supporting everyone in building the resilience, confidence, and emotional intelligence needed to thrive, both on and off the field.
Through programmes such as Futures, Body Confidence for Girls, and Fit as a Bull, we use the power of rugby to strengthen resilience and mental wellbeing as well as physical health. Whether it’s helping a young person re-engage with school, supporting women and girls to feel empowered in their own bodies, or encouraging adults to stay active and connected, our goal is simple: to create a community where everyone feels valued and supported.
Together, Newcastle Rugby Foundation, PREM Rugby and Mental Health UK are providing the tools, skills, and connections that help our community look after themselves and each other.
Join us in starting brave conversations, showing support, and proving that Bravery Starts Here – in Newcastle, in the North East, and in every part of the rugby family.
More information and mental health resources are available at www.mentalhealth-uk.org/prem-rugby/
