A new partnership between Archery GB and Sport in Mind will see the two organisations working together to transform the nation's mental health through archery.
The two organisations will be working collaboratively to highlight the positive benefits of archery for improved mental health, including the delivery of educational programmes and mental health fact sheets. The resources, for instructors, volunteers and the archery community, will provide greater understanding of supporting people with mental health issues through sport. Sport in Mind will also delivery educational webinars for Archery GB Ambassadors to give them a greater understanding of mental health, and the positive benefits physical activity has for improved mental wellbeing.
Gayle Pink, Head of Participation at Archery GB, said: "We are thrilled to announce our partnership with Sport in Mind, uniting our efforts to promote mental wellbeing through the empowering sport of archery.
"Archery offers many physical and mental wellbeing benefits, including mental focus, drive, and resilience, perfect for mindfulness and letting go of everyday stress. This collaboration embodies our shared commitment to enriching lives through archery, fostering resilience, confidence, and a sense of community through sport."
Neil Harris, Sport in Mind's CEO, said: "I am absolutely delighted that we have formed a partnership with Archery GB. Our priority as an organisation is to transform the nation's mental health through sport and our fantastic collaboration with Archery GB further enables us to do just that.
"I am passionate about not only ensuring that more people access community sports to improve their mental health, but that we also empower individuals within the sporting community to be able to understand mental health and support people when they need it."
The start of the partnership coincides with Mental Health Awareness Week (12-18 May), and Start Archery Week (10-18 May) where both organisations will be celebrating the power of sport in bringing people together, championing community, opening up conversations, and improving mental wellbeing.
The theme for this year's Start Archery Week is community, celebrating the impact being part of the archery community has at uniting people, strengthening communities and combating loneliness and isolation.