Picture Credit ©INPHO/Ryan Byrne
Connacht Rugby has announced Pieta House as their official charity partner for 2017.
Pieta House, which was founded in 2006, offers counselling to those suffering from suicidal ideation, those who have been bereaved by suicide and people who are engaging in self-harm. In the bereavement centres, Pieta provides counselling, therapy and support to individuals, couples, families and children who have been bereaved by suicide. All of the services are free and can also be accessed by phoning the free 24-hour suicide helpline 1800 247 247.
Commenting on the announcement Connacht Rugby’s Business Relationship Manager Barry McCann said:
“This is the second season we will work with Pieta House and we hope to make a real difference in helping them to raise awareness around self-harm and suicide in Ireland.
“As with every season our objective is to increase awareness for our charity partner. Pieta House do wonderful work and make a big impact in Connacht, Ireland and abroad and we look forward to working with them again this season.
“With so many deserving charities it is always a difficult process in selecting the nominated charities each season and where possible we will continue to support additional charity initiatives.”
Over the season Connacht Rugby will work closely with Pieta House, providing them with active support on specific projects, including their flagship fundraising event Darkness into Light taking place at different locations around the country on Saturday May 6th 2017.
Connacht Rugby players and management will be involved in various awareness campaigns for the national charity.
Brian Higgins CEO of Pieta House commented on the partnership saying:
“I’m very grateful to Connacht Rugby for choosing to support Pieta House as their official charity partner for another season. Partnerships and support of this kind are essential to raise awareness of suicide and self-harm in our communities. Our vision is to live in a world where suicide, self-harm and stigma have been replaced by hope, self-care and acceptance. Supporting and looking out for each other is a vital part of team sports and I encourage all those who are part of the club to continue to look after themselves and to watch out for each other.”