AFTER seeing his own sporting aspirations ended while battling his own mental health issues, f0rmer Worcestershire cricketer Callum Lea has now turned his attentions towards supporting others experiencing troubles of their own.
Lea sought help
to get himself back on track.
But that eventually led to him starting Sporting Minds UK, which has already helped more than 300 athletes.
“In the summer of 2018 I started going through some mental health issues which prompted me to have a look at what support was on offer,” Callum told the RunFree podcast.
“There wasn’t really much out there in terms of specific organisations that represent mental health issues for young athletes. “In my gap year, the year after, I decided to try and set up my own support system.
“It started off as an Instagram page and has now grown into a formal charity.
“So far we’ve supported just over 300 athletes and that’s run with our partners which is BUPA healthcare.
“Essentially we raise awareness and provide free professional support for young athletes.
“Lots of people have been involved in it and it’s great.
“We’re ready to help as many athletes as we can.”
Sporting Minds UK were also chosen by the Wisten family as the charity to be the beneficiary of donations in memory of their son Jeremy who took his own life after leaving Manchester City’s youth system.
Listen to our whole interview with Callum on the podcast page.