Widnes Vikings are once again remembering those affected by suicide during this Sunday’s Betfred Championship match against York Knights.
We will display 120 rugby league shirts on seats at the DCBL Stadium, marking the number of people around the world who will take their own lives during the 80-minute match, one every 40 seconds.
Suicide is a major public health challenge, with more than 700,000 deaths each year globally. Each suicide has far-reaching social, emotional, and economic consequences, and deeply affects individuals and communities worldwide.
The shirts were also displayed during our televised clash with Halifax Panthers in 2o22.
Foundation Trustee, Ste Cash said: “The shirt idea came from the Extra Time group following a State of Mind initiative to promote the number of people who will have lost their lives to suicide.
“It’s a very visual way of getting the message across that this is a serious problem.
He added: “A lot of people in the rugby league community will know somebody who has been affected by suicide in one way or another, including those that have been left behind, and understand the devastating effect that has.
“By running this initiative for such a game, hopefully, we can play a role in people talking about the issue and feeling comfortable doing so.
“We have to move away from the stigma that surrounds men in particular talking and sharing their thoughts.”
The Extra Time group is a men’s mental fitness group where those who attend learn different techniques to manage their mental fitness.
Sessions are held at 6:30pm every Tuesday at the DCBL Stadium and anyone interested in men’s mental fitness is welcome.
