Racing Welfare is once again taking the lead in championing mental health across the horseracing industry during Mental Health Awareness Week 2025 (12 – 18 May), focussing on the power of community to support wellbeing.
Mental Health Awareness Week is an annual campaign encouraging people to come together to focus on good mental health for all.
This year the theme, as set by the Mental Health Foundation, is ‘community’.
We’re taking the opportunity to highlight the vital role being part of a supportive, positive community plays in building mental and physical wellbeing, resilience and helping to prevent poor mental health.
Racing Welfare is encouraging everyone in the racing industry to come together – whether over a coffee, a social outing, or a team event – to nurture good mental health. The benefits of coming together as a group and starting conversations with others cannot be underestimated.
Racing Welfare will also be holding a number of community events and have a presence at many racecourses throughout the week.
Karen Ladym, Mental Health Lead at Racing Welfare explains: “Being part of a community offers connection, support, and a sense of belonging— all things which help to protect our mental health, and can prevent feelings of loneliness, anxiety and depression. We hope that people will take action to support the wellbeing of themselves and others this week by getting together within their communities.”
The focus this year is on prevention through positive action, and reflects Racing Welfare’s proactive approach, which includes a programme of community events, information, advice and guidance and mental health training for the industry.
However, the charity is also keen to highlight that anyone who needs support can contact Racing Welfare 24/7, 365 days a year on 0800 6300 443 for in the moment support and access to counsellors.
To find out more about the campaign or Racing Welfare’s community events, please visit: www.racingwelfare.co.uk
