KEIGHLEY Cougars are backing calls for people to speak out about mental health.

The rugby league club has joined forces with other sports teams and health leaders across the region to support the Check In With Your Mate campaign.

West Yorkshire Health and Care Partnership is spearheading the initiative, which encourages people – particularly men – to have conversations around mental health, as well as raising awareness of risk factors and where to access help.

Latest figures show that in West Yorkshire, between 2020 and last year, there were 12.5 registered suicide deaths per 100,000 people – compared to a national rate of 10.3. Men account for around three-quarters of suicide deaths.

Campaign organisers say that people can struggle more with mental health issues at this time of year due to factors such as money or family worries, or loneliness.

Cougars and other sports clubs – including Leeds Rhinos, Bradford Bulls and Bradford City FC – have been spreading the campaign's messages via social media, backed by public health teams at Bradford and Leeds councils.

And at their Boxing Day match against Oldham, Cougars players will wear specially-branded T-shirts for the warm-up and leaflets will be distributed to fans.

Kaue Garcia, the club's managing director, says: "We’re always keen to support this message and are pleased to be able to help increase awareness over the festive period.

"We'd urge people to check in with their mates, particularly at this time of year. It’s so important to take the time to reach out to those around you and show them it’s OK to talk."

A range of resources has been created for the Check In With Your Mate venture, including graphics for social media posts, and website banners and posters.

Rob Webster, for West Yorkshire Health and Care Partnership, says: "Please have those conversations and help spread the word with our campaign resources, which signpost to the most up-to-date support for those in need across the region.

"You don’t need to have all the answers – by simply being there and listening, you are creating a space where people know it’s OK to talk.

"We know that many households are struggling with financial worries at the moment and this could be heightened over the festive period. We want everyone to be aware of the support that is available and to reach out if they feel they need it."

For more details, visit checkinwithyourmate.co.uk