She said people prescribed antipsychotic medications could be prone to health issues like high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, cancer and liver disease.
“We know from population health data that Shropshire and Telford have some of the highest incidence of deaths related to these,” she said.
“By promoting sport we’re hoping to be able to support our service users and people with SMIs in the county to improve their lifestyle.”
The scheme is funded through a grant from Sport England.
“We’ve known with the tennis [it] is a great avenue for promoting your mental health; two years later it’s still going,” Parrish said.
“That camaraderie, you’re with like-minded people, there’s no stigma and it’s free at the point of entry…you get free equipment, free coaching.”
Anyone over 18 who is considered to have an SMI – who are prescribed antipsychotic or mood-stabilising medication – and are registered with a GP in Shropshire – can register or book a place for sessions.
“This currently runs until July this year and we’re hoping we’ll be able to extend them past that,” added Parrish.