Among the many support mechanisms available, member welfare remains our foremost priority. As the season progresses, it is important to emphasize the significance of well-being for every member of our association. While the initial stages of a campaign may bring energy and enthusiasm, the sustained demands of a long season—extended hours, pressure, stress, and fatigue— can have a considerable impact. Safeguarding welfare is not only vital to individual success but also essential to the effectiveness of the wider team.

Support within our industry exists at every level, whether through Human Resources, Heads of Department, colleagues, family, or friends. Beyond this, the FMPA plays a leading role in promoting and protecting member welfare, often working discreetly to provide assistance when it is needed most. This independent support is a valuable resource that responsible Club leaders should ensure is accessible to all staff.

The FMPA serves as the first point of contact for matters including contract issues, confidential concerns, conflict resolution, and periods of stress. Our team is available seven days a week, throughout the year, and our confidential mental health helpline remains open to anyone seeking guidance or advice. In addition, we provide legal support (contract evaluations and settlement agreements), education, recruitment services, member profiles, and financial guidance to complement this framework of care.

Together, these provisions form the independent, member-focused structure that underpins the association’s welfare strategy—a framework that is indispensable to all medical and performance practitioners within the game and one that consolidates our unique interpersonal relationship with members.

If you would like to discuss any of the issues above contact [email protected] or call 0333 4567897.

Eamonn Salmon, Chief Executive Officer, FMPA