For most of us, returning to hockey is something we’ve looked forward to and we can’t wait to get on the pitch. We know the benefits of sport and exercise aren’t just physical – it also helps support good mental health. But not everyone is so keen to get back, or they might be, but are worried about it after being in lockdown for so long. The effects of the pandemic have been harder for some and as your welfare officers, we’ve been working together over the last few months to ensure we can provide help and support to any of our members who need it. This isn’t restricted to junior members – it’s every person at the club; coaches, players, managers, support teams and parents.

Over the coming months, we’ll be sending out regular newsletters, providing guidance,
help and advice. Dotted around the club, you’ll see posters and cards you can take, with the contact details of various organisations you might find useful. Of course, it goes without saying that you can always get in touch with either of us, your captain or a friend in the club. It may be that you just need an ear, or maybe we can help with practical
things, such as being concerned that financial worries mean you won’t be able to return to the club. Talk to us – we promise we’ll do our level best to help. Rest assured, anything you discuss with us will be handled sensitively.

If you’re the parent of a junior player and you think we might need to know that your child has had a particularly difficult time during lockdown, please do get in touch. The more we know about how our players, the more able we are to ensure we provide the best hockey (and club) experience.

CAN YOU HELP?

As a club, we look out for each other and one of the ways we can do this is by accessing training to become a mental health first aider. You won’t be expected to be an expert in mental health, but if you feel you can offer your support to someone who needs it, let us know and we’ll sort out training. You may already have experience in this field, in which case your help would be so appreciated.

Please email us at: wakefieldhcwelfare@gmail.com

Ali Willoughby – Lead Welfare Officer Telephone: 07403 896718

Tracy Jones – Deputy Welfare Officer Telephone: 07730 457353