Bridgwater United Football Club kicked off the Toolstation Western League’s mental health partnership with Mind in Somerset at Fairfax Park on Tuesday September 27th.
Before the Robins Premier Division clash with Saltash United, posters designed by Mind in Somerset were presented to Club Chairman, Bob Buckingham.
Bob was joined by Anne Marie Russ and Alison Baker from Mind in Somerset, who ran at bucket collection for the Mental Health charity, amongst supporters at the game.
Bob said: “We are delighted to provide our support to the Toolstation Western League’s partnership with Mind in Somerset and the fantastic work they do in the community.
The general health and well-being of all of those who represent us is extremely important to our Club. Raising awareness of the help that Mind can provide, is a key part of our approach to our players’ and staff welfare.”
Alison Baker, Corporate Partnerships Officer for Mind in Somerset said “We are delighted to have this partnership with the Toolstation League. It is a fantastic opportunity to raise the issue of mental health within the football community as well as raising much needed funds to help support the mental wellness of people thoughout Somerset.”
As well as changing room posters, Mind in Somerset have provided leaflets for fans, as well as a programme advert, highlighting the variety of support services they provide. This initiative is being extended by the Western League to cover all 42 Clubs across the South West of England, from Cornwall to Wiltshire.
Western League Podcast presenter, Ian Nockolds, is leading the campaign for the Western League and said: “Bridgwater United are one of the most forward thinking Clubs in the Western League and I knew they would embrace this opportunity to support our partnership with Mind in Somerset and help promote the important issue of mental wellbeing. The changing room posters are designed to offer to support to young people, who are struggling with their own mental wellbeing. By working together the football family can make a difference. We are only rivals on the pitch, off it we are there to support each other”.