Sport & Mental Health: Screening & Discussion

In recognition of the National Theatre’s Oliver Award-winning production, Dear England, a pre-show screening and discussion in partnership with the Norfolk Community Sports Foundation.

Dear England highlights the importance of breaking the stigma and a team culture that prioritises psychological resilience and emotional wellbeing. Sports and creativity play an important role in supporting mental health and wellbeing in our communities.

This screening of Norwich City’s You Are Not Alone film, with accompanying panel discussion will explore how sport and the arts can have a positive impact in shifting perceptions, building resilience and encouraging conversations around mental health.

You Are Not Alone Film:

The video, entitled “You Are Not Alone”, carries an important message about suicide prevention and the need to check in with those around you, as people may not display obvious signs that they are struggling.

The campaign has received global acclaim since its launch on World Mental Health Day 2023, and the club have received numerous requests from organisations and individuals to use the video in professional, educational, and administrative settings.

It was produced in close consultation with suicide prevention charity Samaritans, who are joined by leading mental health organisations Mind, CALM, Mental Health Innovations (Shout), and Heads Together, in endorsing the video’s release and use as a tool to increase mental health awareness.

In the short film, two men are seen attending Norwich City matches together over the course of a season – one appears to be happy and outgoing, while the other is withdrawn and quiet. As the film concludes, it becomes apparent that the more outgoing man has died by suicide, dispelling the myth that only those that display obvious signs experience poor mental health.

5-minute video screening, followed by a panel discussion.

Please note: You Are Not Alone addresses themes of mental health and suicide that may be distressing to some viewers

The panel:

Claire Pullen is the Wellbeing and Welfare Manager at Norwich City Community Sports Foundation, where she oversees the organisation’s wellbeing and welfare provision for all staff and participants. This includes providing tailored individual support, referrals and signposting, and delivering training to promote positive wellbeing across the Foundation. She also leads on equality, diversity, and inclusion initiatives, helping to ensure an inclusive and supportive culture. Over the past 11 years, Claire has held a variety of roles within the Foundation, all with a strong focus on wellbeing and mental health support. She is passionate about creating a supportive environment where everyone can thrive both personally and professionally.

Stevie Bramble is the Director of Education and Programmes at the Foundation. He is accountable for the overall performance and wellbeing of all 200 students, whilst also overseeing all practical programme delivery by the Foundation. This includes numerous wellbeing and mental health focused programmes such as TeamTalk and Run4Me, which combines the power of sport and physical activity with a trusted group of peers and support professionals. Having been at the Foundation for 24 years, he has seen significant growth and reliance on the Foundation’s wellbeing and support offerings.

This screening takes place on the first night of Dear England (Norwich Theatre Royal, 3 Feb – 7 Feb) Tickets can be booked here!