The NSW Nationals in the state government are calling on sporting organisations to step up and serve some ace ideas for delivering mental health and wellbeing activities as part of a $2.8 million Mental Health Sports program.
The Mental Health Sports Fund is part of the $130 million COVID-19 mental health recovery package announced in October 2021.
It builds on the success of the $1.1 million Mental Health Sport Fund in 2019-20.
Nationals Minister for Mental Health Bronnie Taylor said clubs can apply for grants of up to $150,000 from now until March 6, 2022, for activities that provide mental health, resilience, and wellbeing benefits to individuals and groups across the state.
“As part of our COVID-19 mental health recovery package, we’re looking to our sporting clubs to inspire people to make their mental health and wellbeing a top priority in 2022,” Mrs Taylor said.
“These grants are intended to take conversations about mental health out of the clinic and into the clubhouse. We want people talking about how they’re going emotionally and mentally in a setting they are comfortable with.
“As well as being a fun recreational activity, exercise in almost any form can act as a stress reliever. Being active can boost your feel-good endorphins, distract from daily worries and is a great way to meet new friends or catch up with old ones, making it a fantastic remedy for maintaining a healthy mind and lifestyle.”
All NSW-based sports bodies are encouraged to apply, with the aim of ensuring a spread of funding and projects across the state. Grants will be available to clubs supporting both general populations and the following priority populations:
- Aboriginal people
- Culturally and linguistically diverse people
- LGBTIQ+ people
- People with coexisting mental health, alcohol or other drug issues.
To start your application, please visit: https://bit.ly/34HgU1f
