The Coronavirus pandemic has been a scary and overwhelming time for many, with our mental health just as much at risk as our physical health.
With this in mind, we at The Harlequins Foundations wanted to see how Harlequins members have been coping during these challenging times, by giving them a call to check in and to make sure they are OK, and letting them know that we are here to offer support whenever it may be needed.
Having started the campaign in June, with funding support from City Bridge Trust and the London Community Response Fund, we were struck by how strong and resilient our members are!
To date, we have called over a thousand members, and the overwhelming theme of the calls has been how much they have missed seeing Quins play, and the support and appreciation shown not only to Harlequins but to The Harlequins Foundation as well.
Whether it be engaging content from The Club and The Foundation on social media, a range of virtual events and activities, or flexibility around season tickets and memberships, supports were very appreciative of everything that the Harlequins family had done to come together and support each other during this difficult time.
Even having the opportunity of someone to talk to meant a lot to people.
James Collins-Clark, Foundation Development Officer, said “I have thoroughly enjoyed the conversations with our members and supporters.
“Whether its seeing what they’ve been up to during lockdown, checking how them and their friends and family have been coping, or even just having a rugby chat, it’s been great to get to know our Harlequins family a bit better.
“In these difficult times it is great to hear such positivity and great support for The Club and The Foundation”.
It has been a real pleasure for our team to be able to speak to so many members in recent weeks, and we have been blown away by your support and positivity.
Whilst we have enjoyed engaging in new ways, we cannot wait to welcome everyone back to The Stoop as soon as it is safe to do so.