Today is World Suicide Prevention Day. This year’s message is “Changing the Narrative on Suicide” and “Start the Conversation.” This is something we can all do — especially within a rugby club like ours.

Sometimes we really have no idea what someone is carrying behind the scenes and all need to know its OK to talk!

We talk a lot about looking after each other on the pitch. We check that someone is okay after a big tackle, we pick each other up when someone is struggling and we celebrate the wins together.

Let’s do the same off the pitch.

Check in on your mates.
Ask the second question, not just “You alright?”
Notice when someone seems a little different.
Make the time for a chat.
And remember that it is absolutely OK not to be OK. ❤️

For our young people in particular, please know that you don’t have to have everything figured out, and you don’t have to deal with difficult feelings on your own.

Joe’s Buddy Line is a brilliant source of support for young people, helping to open up conversations around mental health and wellbeing. You can also text JOESBUDDY to 85258 for free, confidential support from a trained Shout volunteer, 24/7 www.joesbuddyline.org).

Other support is available too:

- Samaritans – 116 123 – free, 24/7
- Shout – text SHOUT to 85258 – free, confidential, 24/7
- If someone is in immediate danger, call 999.

As a club, we are committed to promoting mental well being in addition to the physical benefits of playing rugby. Please feel free to contact any of the committee at any time - we’re happy to talk, to listen and be there. Whether you are a player or supporter, you are part of our Old Cats family, and that means you matter.

Talking is the start - you don’t have to be struggling badly enough to “deserve” support. We are all here for each other. So today, check in on someone. Send the message. Make the call. Have the conversation.

Start the conversation. You never know how much it might mean.

#WorldSuicidePreventionDay #WSPD2026 #StartTheConversation #OldCats #OldCaterhamiansRFC #ItsOKNotToBeOK #LookAfterYourMates

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