Driffield Rugby Union Football Club (RUFC) has showcased incredible community spirit and generosity, raising an impressive £9,840 for the local mental health charity Hull and East Yorkshire Mind. This marks the beginning of an official partnership between the club and the charity, with a shared mission to promote mental health awareness both on and off the pitch.
A Tribute to Ollie Robinson-Booth
The collaboration between Driffield RUFC and Hull and East Yorkshire Mind was ignited by the tragic loss of Ollie Robinson-Booth, a beloved member of the club who sadly took his own life at just 21 years old. In Ollie’s memory, the club has dedicated itself to making a positive impact on mental health, rallying together as a community to raise awareness and provide support for those struggling with their mental health.
A Year of Community Involvement
Throughout 2024, the club’s players, members, and supporters came together in various fundraising initiatives aimed at supporting mental health services. A particularly standout event was the ‘Movember Challenge,’ where over 30 club members grew moustaches to raise awareness about men’s mental health. Their efforts raised a remarkable £3,498.75, including Gift Aid, highlighting the collective commitment to breaking the stigma surrounding mental health, especially among men.
In addition to the Movember Challenge, Driffield RUFC has organized numerous events throughout the year to raise funds and encourage open conversations about mental well-being. Hull and East Yorkshire Mind has been an active partner, attending these events, engaging with participants, and sharing valuable resources to help raise awareness and provide vital mental health support.
A Heartfelt Appreciation from Hull and East Yorkshire Mind
Marie-Louise Robinson, the Community Fundraiser at Hull and East Yorkshire Mind, expressed her gratitude for the club’s incredible efforts. She said:
“We are deeply moved by the extraordinary support from Driffield RUFC. Their efforts not only raised an incredible amount of money but also sent a powerful message about the importance of mental health and supporting one another. Ollie’s story is a heartbreaking reminder of why this work is so important, and the way the Club and community have rallied together in his memory is truly inspiring.”
A Message of Unity and Support
Driffield RUFC Chairman, Simon Hornby, echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the importance of mental health awareness and the club’s commitment to continuing their support of Hull and East Yorkshire Mind. He shared:
“Hull and East Yorkshire Mind is a charity which is very close to our hearts at Driffield Rugby Club. When Ollie passed away in 2023, the club really pulled together to try and make a difference and raise as much money as possible to go towards this fantastic charity. If the money we have raised can help at least one person, we have reached our own goal and are proud of what our members have achieved in the past 12 months, and we look forward to supporting the charity in the future.”
Looking to the Future
The partnership between Driffield RUFC and Hull and East Yorkshire Mind represents not just a fundraising effort, but a long-term commitment to creating a supportive, open community where mental health is prioritized. By continuing to raise funds, engage in mental health discussions, and promote awareness, the club hopes to make a lasting impact on the lives of those struggling with mental health issues.
In the memory of Ollie Robinson-Booth, Driffield RUFC’s collective efforts remind us all that even in the darkest of times, the power of community and support can shine through, helping to create a brighter, more compassionate future.
