Every player and supporter’s wellbeing is being made a priority at Wymondham Rugby Club as it introduces a club-wide mental health training programme.

“The problem when it comes to our mental health is that too often you can’t see the injury,” explains Anita Coleman, from the club’s Wellbeing Committee.

The club has already run an “R U OK?” campaign, encouraging teammates to watch out for each other, and is now working with NHS Norfolk and Waveney to provide Wellbeing Champion training for coaches and volunteers.

“It’s so important that we do this,” said Anita.

“We’re a big club now with nearly two thousand members. Mental health can affect anyone. The trust and friendships built up in the club mean we can be in a great position to spot problems.”

Suicide is the leading cause of death for young adults in the UK. Sport - as Norwich City proved last year with the global success of its wellbeing video - is seen as one of the best ways of getting important messages across.

The project at Wymondham is being supported by Savills, one of the club’s corporate sponsors, and will see the appointment of mental health 1st aiders to work alongside the team of medical 1st aiders.

Club chair Paul Wootton knows from his own experience how mental illness can affect anyone. “I suffered from a severe mental health issue a decade ago when I was working in London.

“In essence, I had burned myself out but, to be honest, I didn’t realise what was going on. It was my PA who did and she referred me to a GP.

“I’m quite open that I have suffered from depression. My family and friends have been a huge help and that’s what this is about - to give people the confidence to ask for help when they need it most.”

The Samaritans are available for anyone who needs them. They provide a confidential, non-judgemental and safe environment for people to talk about concerns and issues they are having. Phone 116 123 (a free 24-hour number) or email jo@samaritans.org.