Luke Clayton is a Masters student at York St John University, who along with fellow Postgraduate Masters by Research student Sarah Ward is undertaking a year of academic research into mental health awareness in sport. Luke and Sarah are focusing on #21by21, a national campaign aimed at encouraging 21,000 coaches become trained in mental health awareness by 2021. The campaign is supported by 11 partners including the national mental health charity Mind, Sport Wales and Sport for Development delivery organisations StreetGames and the Dame Kelly Holmes Trust.

The study aims to investigate the role of community sport coaches and volunteers who have been involved in the mental health awareness training courses. Participants are now being sought to take part in the research.

What is the purpose of the investigation?

The aim of the investigation is to examine sports coaches, volunteers and participants perceptions, thoughts and practical experiences of the mental health awareness training. In conducting this investigation, Luke is trying to develop a greater understanding of how the coach's role and physical activity impact participants' mental health.

What will you do in the project?

This study involves a one-to-one interview between the researcher and participant which will last approximately 45-60 minutes. During this interview, you will be asked a series of questions regarding your experiences of the mental health awareness training. The interview will take place at a time and date convenient for you. Telephone interviews will be conducted instead of face-to-face interviews due to social distancing measures in place due to Coronavirus.

If you, your staff or colleagues who have attended the mental health awareness training would be willing to participate in this short interview please contact:

Luke Clayton, Postgraduate Researcher
School of Sport, York St John University
Lord Mayor’s Walk, York YO31 7EX
luke.clayton@yorksj.ac.uk

For more information about the #21by21 campaign go to www.21by21.info