Free and confidential mental health support from the British Eventing Support Trust

The British Eventing Support Trust is issuing a reminder for all BE competing members that they can access free mental health at any time thanks to its helpline. Competing members of all ages and backgrounds can access free, confidential support at any time of night or day by calling 07780 008877. They will be connected to a trained therapist who will talk about their situation for as long as they like. Ongoing support to help those in need to manage and overcome their situation is also available, all free of charge.

Eventing is a thrilling sport, but the wins and highs can be followed by devastating lows – of injuries to horses, falls and rider injury. Even the pressure of competing in front of peers and spectators can take its toll, and we’re more aware than ever that mental health pressures can impact anyone.

But thanks to the British Eventing Support Trust helpline, there’s no need for any rider to suffer in silence. One in four adults in Britain will suffer from a mental health issue in the next 12 months, and the trustees and staff of the British Eventing Support Trust are keen to share the word that support is available. The help is free, thanks to generous donations from the charity’s supporters, and it’s 100% confidential. 

Chair of the Trustees Ian Stark commented: “Eventing is an incredibly tough sport with riders competing in a spotlight that now includes endless online scrutiny as well as being judged on the day. We felt it was a key moment to remind people that trained, professional help is out there. I urge anyone who is suffering to call. I’d also like to take this chance to thank our donors, without whom we couldn’t offer this service.”

The mental health support helpline is run in partnership with Sporting Chance and was first unveiled in November 2023. The helpline costs £1,200 to run every year, and each session costs the charity between £85 and £100. Ongoing support, in the form of six counselling sessions, is available when the therapist and the beneficiary agree that it will benefit the caller.

Learn more at: https://besupporttrust.org.uk/support-helpline/