Supporting Mental Health and Wellbeing at Motorsport UK

Tuesday 14 May 2024

Here at Motorsport UK, we understand just how important it is that the physical and mental wellbeing of our community is front and foremost, so that everyone can get the most out of the sport and enjoy motorsport in a safe, fun and enjoyable way. 

Motorsport UK supports Every Mind Matters – the Public Health England’s (PHE) mental health campaign launched in partnership with the NHS.   The government-backed campaign is designed to show the steps people can take to be better prepared for life’s ups and downs. It offers an online platform, that allows users to create a personalised action plan recommending a set of self-care actions to deal with stress, boost mood, improve sleep and feel in control. 

We recognise that taking care of mental health is as important as maintaining good physical health. Everyone involved in Motorsport has a part to play in supporting the enjoyment and safety of its events, as well as look after their own wellbeing and wellbeing of others, so that the benefits of our sport can be enjoyed by all. 

It is for this very reason that we have a dedicated and experienced Safeguarding team.  

Vickie Lewis, Safeguarding and Welfare Case Manager explains more about aspects of her role and what the team do, “Motorsport is a fantastic sport for all to be involved in and can have a positive effect on your wellbeing. However, you may find there are some situations which have a negative impact on your wellbeing. Our safeguarding team provide signposting and support to our members when they are experiencing poor mental health and wellbeing.  

“We also refer to our licence holders to specialist support (when required) if their health concerns are related to the sport, this includes when a person has been involved in or attended a serious incident. On these occasions, in my role I will be in contact with all individuals identified by the nominated event official, including volunteers, officials and competitors, who may have been impacted, to signpost to their local support organisations or to offer confidential, independent, counselling support.   

“Motorsport UK recognise the importance of the mental health and wellbeing of the community and we work closely with Health Assured, a leading organisation in the UK providing health and wellbeing support. Further, Motorsport UK has been working in partnership with Sporting Chance, a charity specialising in supporting sport people’s mental health and wellbeing.” 

For our community and affiliated clubs, we offer advice and support for young adults who are new to the sport, for parents to ensure that their children are kept safe while competing or training and for our adult members of the community whether a competitor, official or volunteer. 

More information about Safeguarding and Welfare and the role that it plays at Motorsport UK can be found here.