Spotlight: Looseheadz
Rugby is a sport built on resilience, teamwork, and unbreakable bonds—but behind the tough exterior, many players struggle in silence. LooseHeadz is on a mission to change that. By weaving mental health awareness into the fabric of the game, this groundbreaking organization is ensuring that no player, past or present, faces their battles alone. LooseHeadz is a pioneering rugby-focused mental health organization committed to eradicating the stigma surrounding mental health within the rugby community. Founded in 2017 by Dave, Mark, and Rob—three lifelong rugby enthusiasts who recognized the profound impact of mental health challenges—the organization has since dedicated itself to fostering open conversations and providing essential support across all levels of the sport. Here's how they're redefining support both on and off the pitch.
Mission Statement
At the heart of LooseHeadz’s efforts is a clear and ambitious mission: to place a mental health lead, known as a ‘LooseHead,’ into every rugby club worldwide. This initiative aims to equip clubs with the necessary tools and resources to promote mental fitness and tackle the associated stigma head-on. The organization funds this mission through the sale of their clothing line, ensuring that 100% of the profits are reinvested into mental health initiatives within the rugby community.
Community Initiatives
Central to LooseHeadz’s approach is its Partnership Programme, designed to embed mental health leads within rugby clubs. These leads receive a comprehensive toolkit that includes mental health training, access to a 24/7 text support line, and various educational materials. This initiative empowers clubs to foster environments where mental fitness is prioritized, and open dialogue is encouraged.
Additionally, LooseHeadz has launched innovative solutions like the AI chatbot IVA, developed in collaboration with Lokulus. This technology addresses the increasing number of mental health inquiries, providing timely support and information to those in need.
Partnerships and Collaborations
LooseHeadz has established numerous strategic partnerships to amplify its impact:
• Major League Rugby (MLR): In 2022, LooseHeadz became the official mental fitness partner for MLR, integrating mental health leads into each club and providing tailored resources to support players’ well-being.
• Vodafone’s EmpowHER Program: Collaborating with Vodafone and “The Good, The Scaz and The Rugby” podcast, LooseHeadz contributes to the EmpowHER initiative, which supports young female rugby players at UK universities. The program offers mentorship, technological insights, and mental health support, significantly boosting female participation in the sport.
• Rugby Football Union (RFU): Partnering with the RFU, LooseHeadz has developed online training resources featuring rugby players and mental health professionals, aiming to educate and support the rugby community on mental well-being.
• Xledger UK: This partnership focuses on expanding the LooseHeadz Partnership Programme, aiming to increase the number of participating clubs to over 1,000. Xledger provides resources and expertise to support the mental health of rugby players, coaches, and supporters globally.
Supporters and Ambassadors
The organization’s mission has garnered support from a diverse group of ambassadors, including professional athletes, coaches, and media personalities. Notably, Shaun Edwards, former rugby league superstar and English rugby union coach, serves as a patron of the LooseHeadz Foundation, lending his influence to promote mental health awareness. The collective efforts of these supporters amplify the organization’s message, extending its reach and impact within the rugby community and beyond.
Through unwavering dedication, strategic partnerships, and community-driven initiatives, LooseHeadz continues to make significant strides in promoting mental well-being, ensuring that support is accessible to all members of the rugby family. You can check them out and make a difference here: https://looseheadz.co.uk/.
