“An absolute no-brainer.”

The words of Toni Taylor, Managing Director, of Westbourne-based Tru Talent.

She was speaking after confirmation that the recruitment specialist is to continue as official partner of AFC Bournemouth’s Community Sports Trust for the 2022/23 season.

It will continue to support and sponsor the Mental Health and Wellbeing programme, run as an educational project across primary and secondary schools in Dorset.

An NHS study revealed that nearly 40 per cent of six to 16-year-olds had experienced a deterioration in mental health since 2017, highlighting the importance of the programme.

It’s designed to encourage young people to talk openly and to be able to understand the struggles associated with mental health.

In the sessions, students explore emotions, how to recognise change in behaviour and how to keep a positive mindset while setting goals for the future.

It features a combination of theory and physical activity.

Last season, Tru Talent helped deliver 80 sessions across Dorset and has received positive feedback from students, teachers and parents.

One parent admitted the sessions had “made a real impact on my little man!”

Toni, pictured with her Tru Talent team, said: “Having seen the huge impact that the Mental Health & Wellbeing programme has had on our community, it was an absolute no-brainer to continue working with AFC Bournemouth’s Community Sports Trust again this season.

“We’ve been delighted with the way the sessions are delivered, the children are so engaged and we’ve heard some wonderful feedback from parents, really highlighting the importance of the project.

“We are over the moon to be part of it again.”

Rob Mitchell, Commercial Director at AFC Bournemouth, said: “We’re delighted to be continuing our relationship with Tru Talent for the forthcoming season.

“Mental health in children is a very important topic and the Mental Health and Wellbeing programme has made a huge impact in the local community.

“We’re really pleased to be able to continue working together and make a further impact in young people’s lives in Dorset.”

• tru-talent.co.uk