The Canterbury Bankstown Bulldogs have today strengthened their commitment to Health and wellness and social inclusion by signing a partnership with Aftercare – Australia’s longest serving provider of mental health services.
Aftercare run several services within the Bulldogs catchment areas focused on helping people in their recovery from mental issues.
With one in four Australian’s experiencing mental health issues in their lifetime, Bulldogs CEO Raelene Castle says the Club is committed to raising awareness about assistance available for individuals, carers and families.
“Improving mental health has been identified as a priority for our community and the Bulldogs are looking forward to raising awareness of what Aftercare can do to help people dealing with these challenges,” Castle said.
“They have well established programmes that assist people recovering from mental health issues with employment and housing. They also provide support for families and friends who are dealing with a loved one facing mental health issues.”
Through his role as a ‘State of Mind’ ambassador Moses Mbye, is well aware of the need for the services provided by Aftercare.
“Mental illness doesn’t discriminate. It is shocking to know that at the crisis end, suicide is the largest killer of individuals aged 15-44. It is Australia’s biggest health issue and we are hoping the Bulldogs partnership with Aftercare will improve the outcomes for those affected,” Mbye said.
Aftercare’s Executive Director John Malone expects the partnership will improve awareness of the need to address mental health issues.
“We’ll be working with the Bulldogs to run a campaign that promotes conversations around highlighting mental health and how our organisation can help. It is something that impacts the entire community and this is why we’re so pleased to have the Bulldogs joining us to address an important issue.”
