Football clubs across Leicestershire are stepping up to support men’s mental health by joining the Mental Health Friendly Clubs initiative.
The scheme provides a safe space for players and supporters to open up about their struggles while receiving professional support.
So far, five grassroots clubs have signed up for the programme, which offers free mental health first aid awareness and suicide prevention training.
The initiative is led by Leicestershire and Rutland County FA in partnership with Mental Health Friendly Places, a project supported by public health teams across Leicester and Leicestershire.
Participating clubs—including Harborough Town, Lutterworth Athletic, Sileby Juniors, Ellistown FC, and AFC Andrews—will host weekly or bi-weekly sessions designed to foster an open and supportive environment.
Andy Grout, secretary of Ellistown FC, highlighted the importance of the initiative, stating, “We are a community football club, and we identified that there are mental health issues out there that we have experienced close hand.
“We want to make sure that anyone who comes into Ellistown knows that we are available if there are issues.
“If we can help one person then we have achieved our objective”
Karl Percival, from Leicestershire and Rutland County FA, added, “This project is a great opportunity to inspire positive change through football.
“Grassroots football clubs are important parts of local communities and their commitment to supporting both the physical and mental wellbeing of their volunteers, coaches, parents, players and supporters should be commended.
“We are delighted to have the clubs on board, who will play an integral part in helping break down barriers and removing the stigma around men’s mental health.”
Anyone interested in taking part in the “My Space, My Game” sessions can contact the local FA for more details.
