A Day for Thorpey returns this week!
During England's test match against New Zealand at the Oval this Friday (June 19), former Surrey and England cricketer Graham Thorpe will be honoured through mental health awareness and fundraising
The Kia Oval is set to host the second edition of a Day for Thorpey this Friday (June 19th), a day where the life of former England and Surrey cricketer Graham Thorpe is honoured through mental health awareness and fundraising
This event coincides with the third day of the men’s Test Match between England and New Zealand, forming part of the Crowe-Thorpe Trophy series.
The initiative will raise crucial funds for the mental health charity programme, Thorpey’s Bat & Chat, which encourages people with mental health issues to engage in cricket, foster friendships, and develop self-care skills.
It's being backed by the Surrey County Cricket Club, as well as the mental health charity Mind
Hayley Jarvis - head of physical activity at the charity told us just how vital it is to keep men's mental health in the spotlight
"We know that many men feel that the services aren't for them or that seeking help might be a sign of weakness and they may not know where help is available. So for us, know, the fact that we've got elite athletes talking about their mental health, celebrities, it really helps people."
The inaugural event last year successfully raised over £170,000, underscoring the deep connection between the cricket community and mental health advocacy.
Hayley told us what she thought made the day so effective last year.
"I think for me what was most powerful was the conversations. Conversations with the fans, talking to each other, talking to our staff, our volunteers, about what Grey are meant to them, about the death and losing someone, but also their own mental health."
This year’s fundraiser continues the mission of celebrating Graham Thorpe’s legacy both on and off the cricket field.
Hayley spoke to us about how powerful sport can be for men's mental health.
"Sport is a fantastic vehicle for breaking down mental health stigma. Whether that's your sporting heroes sharing their own mental health, would involve those experiencing mental health problems each year, so it's really common. And we've seen so many athletes now speak about their mental health."