Mental Health Awareness Week

This year’s Mental Health Awareness Week, running from 11–17 May 2026, is centred around the theme of “Action” – encouraging people to take positive steps to support their own mental wellbeing and that of others. The campaign is led nationally by the Mental Health Foundation and highlights the importance of turning awareness into meaningful support and conversation.

Across British racing, Racing Welfare is once again leading the industry’s response, reminding everyone working in racing and breeding that help is always available and that no one should feel they have to struggle alone.

To mark the week, Racing Welfare has partnered with Equine Productions on a new short film reflecting the realities of life behind raceday scenes from long hours and high-pressure environments to balancing family life and personal wellbeing. The campaign encourages open conversations, regular check-ins and greater awareness of the signs of poor mental health within the racing community.

Racecourses and racing teams across the country are also showing their support by wearing green ribbons throughout the week as a visible sign of solidarity and commitment to ending stigma around mental health.

In addition to its day-to-day welfare services, Racing Welfare continues to offer confidential support through its dedicated helpline, alongside subsidised mental health training and accredited Mental Health First Aid courses for those working within the sport.

At Newton Abbot Racecourse, we are proud to support Racing Welfare and Mental Health Awareness Week 2026. Racing is built on teamwork, resilience and community and taking action to support mental wellbeing is an important part of protecting everyone who makes our sport possible. Throughout April and May we have been encouraging our staff to get out in nature and take a break away from screens and pressures and why not our racecourse is located in the most beautiful setting. We have been clocking up the miles and taking the opportunity to connect with each other, wildlife and our track!

For more information or support, visit Racing Welfare or call the confidential support line on 0800 6300 443.