The Toolstation Western League kicked-off their partnership with Wiltshire Mind at the Wiltshire Derby clash between Bradford Town and Warminster Town on April 9th. The re-arranged fixture, originally scheduled for Good Friday, was eventually won by the hosts Bradford Town after Warminster fought back from two goals down.
Before the game, Toolstation Western League Podcast presenter, Ian Nockolds, who has been leading up the Mind initiative for the League, met with Club Chairman, Steve Rose and First Team manager, Chris Carr, to present two changing room posters advertising mental health support services, provided by Wiltshire Mind. In addition to the posters, Mind provided leaflets that were distributed in the clubhouse and Bradford Town published further information in their matchday programme, promoting the importance of positive mental wellbeing.
Bradford Town Chairman, Steve Rose, said: “Mental health is vital to our well being. With the pressures of modern life and also in football it is great that Ian is raising awareness of this worthwhile cause. The club are very happy to support Wiltshire Mind and all the excellent work they do.”
The bucket collection made at the game collected over £180, all of which has been ringfenced by Wiltshire Mind for future projects delivered in Bradford on Avon. This match was the twentieth organised between the Western League and a local Mind Charity, with the previous visits taking place at Clubs across Somerset, Bath and Devon.
Western League Chairman, John Pool, said:
“I’m delighted with the way Bradford Town embraced our partnership with Wiltshire Mind. I’m so pleased we’ve managed to get of to such a positive start, despite the best efforts of the weather. This is an important campaign for the League because we want everyone involved with our Clubs to feel comfortable and supported when they are talking about their mental health.”
Paul Mills, Chief Executive Officer at Wiltshire Mind, said:
“The demand for Mental Health and Wellbeing support continues to increase. As a local charity, we do our best to provide accessible services across the county. Raising £180 through our new partnership with the Toolstation Western League enables us to invest in greater support for Bradford on Avon and is a fantastic start to working with the league in raising awareness and supporting others with their mental wellbeing.”