Larne Football Club have marked National Time to Talk Day 2019 by appointing our very own Mental Health Champion. Midfielder, Jeff Hughes has taken on the voluntary role which is the first of its kind in Irish football.
Mental health is a growing issue across Northern Ireland and we, as a club, are keen to ensure that we are an industry leader in tackling these issues. Hughes’ role will mean that any employee both on the pitch and off, who is suffering from mental health issues will now have someone they can approach in complete confidence.
Tiernan Lynch identified Hughes as the perfect man for the role, stating “Jeff has been a massive part of our dressing room since his arrival from Tranmere Rovers. He is someone who has experienced almost everything in football, including many highs and lows. Jeff has a personality that makes him easily approachable and trustworthy, making him perfect for the role.”
On his new role, Jeff said “I felt the role was a good idea and as a senior dressing room figure I was more than happy to help out. Professional football comes with many pressures not seen in most working environments and it is important that the club has actions in place to support its players and staff. Any issues raised will be done so with my sworn secrecy and commitment to help with the next steps if required.”
Appointing a Mental Health Champion is only the beginning of our actions to tackle mental illness, with more projects being planned for the rest of 2019.
#TimeToTalk #WeAreLarne
