More than 8,300 people across the leisure, aquatics, fitness, recreation and sport sector have now completed Belgravia Foundation’s Mental Health eLearning Program (MHeLP), equipping them with the skills to engage in mental health self-care and provide support to others, respond appropriately and create more supportive workplaces and communities.

Take Charge to expand into golf

Belgravia Foundation’s Take Charge Exercise Program is a free, referral-based initiative co-designed with mental health and physical activity experts to offer those living with diagnosed mental health conditions 60 days of tailored support and one-on-one consultations with qualified team members.

Already offered at 25 Belgravia Leisure venues, the program will expand to golf in Term 4 this year, starting with Geelong Golf Club and Yarrambat Park Golf Course, reaching even more people living with mental health conditions.

Jeff Walkley, CEO of Belgravia Foundation and Group Access & Inclusion Manager at Belgravia Leisure, said:

“The Take Charge program provides a safe, supportive and welcoming pathway for participants to build confidence, stay active and improve their physical, social and mental wellbeing. Expanding this program into golf venues will extend these benefits into new community environments, encouraging broader participation and connection. 

“We’re equally proud of the impact of MHeLP, with more than 8,300 people completing the program and equipping themselves with the knowledge to better support their own mental health and that of others.”

Mental health statistics

One in five Australians (21.5% or 4.3 million people) experienced a mental disorder in the past 12 months (ABS, 2020–22). In New Zealand, data shows around one in three adults (34.8%) reported mild or greater anxiety or depression symptoms in the past two weeks (NZ Ministry of Health 2021–23).

These figures reflect the ongoing pressures communities are facing and underpin the reason for recent major changes in WHS legislation related to psychosocial hazards and workplace responsibilities, highlighting the importance of initiatives such as MHeLP and Take Charge.

Building workforce capability

Evidence confirms MHeLP has been incredibly helpful in supporting participants toward better knowledge of mental health, physical activity for self-care and support to others. With surveys showing a 21% increase in participant’s confidence to adapt their programs and sessions to better support individuals living with a mental health condition.

The session explored evidence-based strategies and real-world examples to help leisure professionals strengthen mental health support across the sector. You can watch the recording here.

As the world recognises World Mental Health Day and reflects throughout Mental Health Month, Belgravia Leisure reaffirms its role as more than a provider of leisure, aquatics, fitness, recreation and sport. Its venues are hubs where people can move, connect and find support, with initiatives like Loneliness Awareness Week activities and Chatty Café sessions also helping to reduce isolation and strengthen community connection. 

Through MHeLP and the expansion of Take Charge, Belgravia Leisure and the Belgravia Foundation are helping thousands prioritise their mental health and wellbeing, this October and every day of the year.

Find out more

For referral information about the Take Charge Program, please contact info@belgraviafoundation.org.au. Access the free Mental Health eLearning Program (MHeLP) here. 

If you require mental health support, please reach out to someone you trust or contact these services: 

• Lifeline Australia: 13 11 14 (24/7) 
• Lifeline New Zealand: 0800 543 354 or free text 4357