We are Sport in Mind
We are Sport in Mind is an award-winning mental health charity that was formed in Reading, Berkshire in 2010. They are unaffiliated to Mind and not part of the local Mind network. They have a simple mission:
"To improve the lives of people experiencing mental health problems through sport and physical activity."
Sport in Mind deliver physical activity (sport, walking, dance and movement, gardening, and exercise sessions) projects in partnership with the NHS to aid:
- recovery
- promote mental wellbeing
- improve physical health
- combat social isolation
- empower people to move their lives forward in a positive direction
Sport in Mind sessions
Sport in Mind sessions are free and open to anyone aged 17 or older who are experiencing mental health problems and carers.
The sessions are lots of fun and for all abilities. There is no need to book on and no referral is needed.
The sessions are all delivered by a qualified instructor. Sport in Mind provide the equipment, venues, and no special clothes are required. Venues are easy to access by both car and bus and cater for all levels of mobility.
Staff and volunteers are happy to talk through the sessions and venues. If it helps, they can also meet you outside and walk in with you. A friend or family member is welcome to come to the first session if it makes it easier for you.
Before you attend a session, you will need to complete a participant form. You can complete the form online or at the session.
Sessions in Cornwall
Sport in Mind have regular sessions in Cornwall. Find a session on the activity map.
For more information, email Laura Brooks or call 07341 267 740.
Sport in Mind’s work
Sport in Mind's innovative programmes are delivered in partnership with the NHS. They co-designed by people with personal experience of mental health problems and healthcare professionals. They deliver sessions to support the recovery of people living with mental health problems in the community and inpatient care. They believe that everyone should have the opportunity to take part in sport and physical activity irrespective of how unwell they are.
As well as delivering physical activity programmes, Sport in Mind also educates people about mental illness and the benefits of being physically active. Sadly, there are still many common misconceptions about mental illness in society today. Sport in Mind use the power of sport to bring people together to talk about mental health and help change attitudes.
Due to the impact their work has had on the communities they operate in, Sport in Mind has gained national and international acclaim. In 2019, the charity received the highest honour a UK charity can be bestowed: the Queen's Award for Voluntary Services.
Watch Neil Harris and Laura Brooks talk about We are Sport in Mind: