Video games mental health charity, Safe In Our World, is celebrating its 5th anniversary by teaming up with developers behind five beloved games to raise awareness of the charity’s resources. The “5-for-5” campaign sees Jagex, Niantic, Radical Forge, and Wired Productions collaborating to host special in-game activations in their games, connecting with gamers who may benefit from mental health support.
The 5-for-5 campaign
This campaign aims to promote Safe In Our World’s life-saving mental health resources, recognising that video games have a powerful positive effect on mental well-being. A survey revealed that around 60% of gamers reported gaming helped improve their mental health, and Safe In Our World hopes to provide crucial support to those who use gaming as a tool for coping.
Rosie Taylor, Content & Community Manager at Safe In Our World, said, “We’re very grateful to the developers we’ve partnered with for the opportunity to connect with and support their communities.” This initiative allows the charity to reach gamers directly in a familiar, supportive environment.
In-game activations and exclusive content
Players across five games will encounter special in-game content to celebrate the charity’s milestone:
- Pokémon GO: Geofenced billboards will appear across the UK and USA starting on October 10th.
- RuneScape: A new froggy skin designed by students from Hertfordshire & Essex High School will be available from October 14th-20th.
- Peridot: A well-being focused web AR experience will be introduced.
- Gori: Cuddly Carnage: A radical new skin pack will be available in-game.
- Southfield: Players can access a cosy Safe In Our World-themed hoodie for their character.
New faces and future plans
In addition to the in-game celebrations, Safe In Our World is expanding its team with the addition of three new members: Jess Rutland (Business Development & Marketing Manager), Em Aspinall (Communications & Events Manager), and Erla Arnadottir (Trustee Board member).
Sarah Sorrell, Charity Director, expressed her gratitude for the organisation’s growth and the collaborative efforts within the gaming industry. “It has been yet another year of extraordinary achievement and growth for the charity, and we have redoubled our efforts in offering essential mental health support, training, and resources.”
The charity is also opening up applications for the Ambassador Class of 2025, encouraging individuals to champion its cause across various platforms. Additionally, Safe In Our World will delve into the tabletop gaming scene with the launch of The Gatekeeper, an eerie D&D one-shot, as part of their Press Pause fundraiser.
Positive Play Guide
Finally, Safe In Our World has teamed up with Niantic to release the Positive Play Guide, a resource aimed at supporting players’ mental well-being. This free downloadable guide is packed with community stories and tips for maintaining positive gaming habits and can be accessed via the charity’s website.
Safe In Our World’s dedication to raising mental health awareness through gaming continues to grow, with its partnerships and initiatives offering vital support to players globally.
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