Troon International shines a light on mental health and wellbeing  07:34, 14/05/2025

During Mental Health Awareness Week (May 12-18) celebrating the power and importance of community, Troon International highlights the importance of fostering a culture of care and focus on associate wellbeing within its global community of golf facilities.

With insights from 23 Troon facilities across the international division following a mental health and wellbeing survey, the data reveals a growing commitment to mental health support with initiatives to benefit all.  A key finding was the priority Troon International’s leaders and facilities are placing on associate wellbeing and mental health awareness and facilitating access to support and resources.

Positive Progress in Mental Health Initiatives

Expanding Support: 75 per cent of clubs surveyed have increased their mental health and wellbeing initiatives over the past three years, showing a proactive shift in workplace culture.

Action-Oriented Approach: 58 per cent of facilities hosted at least three wellbeing events in the last year, reinforcing the importance of active engagement in mental health conversations.

Leadership Buy-In: More than 80 per cent of the leaders at Troon golf clubs internationally were aware of Troon’s commitment to work-life balance amongst associates, a crucial step in driving industry-wide change.

Employee Satisfaction: 65 per cent of associates report being satisfied with their work-life balance, a promising indicator of progress while leaving room for continued improvement.

Examples of initiatives across the Troon International division include:-

The Grove in England has a wellness area in the woodlands designed for team members to use throughout their working day. The Grove has also introduced complimentary 30-minute back, neck and shoulder massages for team members, while Mental Health and Wellbeing Champions share weekly tips through the employee communication platform on a variety of topics.

The Els Club in Dubai is a strong advocate for celebrating success with Front of House and Back of House Associate monthly and annual awards. Building a positive working environment and sense of community includes getting the team together for away days at other UAE golf courses, agronomy team golf clinics and dinner and monthly birthday celebrations.

Vattanac Golf Resort in Cambodia helps to build confidence and skills with Chinese and English language classes for Front of House Associates. Language plays a crucial role in communication and confidence when interacting with international clients and creates a welcome and inclusive environment. Additionally, with the majority of employees commuting to work on motorcycle, Vattanac undertakes Accident Prevention Training specifically designed to prioritise their safety and that of other road users.

What can the Golf Industry learn?

Mental health isn’t just a conversation — it requires action. For golf facilities looking to make meaningful change, Troon’s success offers a roadmap:

• Invest in Wellbeing Initiatives – Host regular events, provide mental health resources, and encourage open conversations.
• Measure & Improve – Conduct surveys and listen to employees to ensure policies align with their needs.
• Lead with Empathy – When senior leaders prioritise mental health, it sets the tone for a healthier, more supportive work environment.

Setting a New Standard

Troon’s commitment to mental wellbeing extends beyond conversations - it’s embedded in initiatives such as the ‘Troon Cares Associate Relief Fund’, which provides financial assistance to full-time associates facing hardships. By fostering a culture of support, Troon is setting an industry benchmark that others can follow.

This World Mental Health Awareness Week, Troon International is proud to champion mental wellbeing across the golf industry. Clubs and organisations looking to enhance their mental health strategies can take inspiration from Troon’s approach and start building healthier workplaces. Please get in touch to find out more.

About Troon International

Troon International is the international division of Troon and the leader in providing golf and club-related leisure and hospitality services outside the Americas. Operating across 60-plus courses in more than 20 countries, Troon International is globally renowned for its excellence in creating extraordinary guest and member experiences by delivering superior service, exceptional amenities, and world-class playing surfaces. Troon International is based in Dubai, UAE, and is one of the primary brands within Troon, the world’s largest golf and golf-related hospitality management company, headquartered in Scottsdale, Ariz, providing services at 900-plus locations in 45-plus states and 35-plus countries, including operational responsibility for 575-plus 18-hole equivalent golf courses. In addition to golf, Troon specializes in homeowner association management, private residence clubs, estate management and associated hospitality venues.

Troon’s family of brands include Troon Golf, Troon Privé, Troon International, Indigo Sports, CADDIEMASTER, ClubUp, Cliff Drysdale Tennis, Peter Burwash International, True Club Solutions, RealFood Hospitality, Strategy and Design, Casa Verde Golf, ICON Management and Eventive Sports.