A Goal for Men’s Mental Health in Wolverhampton
Weekly football matches in connection with Wolverhampton Wanderers FC are helping to promote men’s mental health in the area.
P3 partnered with the local Wolves Foundation – the charity of the Premier League Wolverhampton Wanderers Football Club – to start up the regular kickabouts. Another local charity, The Good Shepherd, is also involved.
Every week, men gather for a 45-minute football game at one of the Foundation’s indoor training grounds, followed by a discussion about the importance of good mental health and how exercise and sport can play a role in maintaining it. Boxercise and golf are also options for those who prefer lighter activity.
Participant David Padmore said: “I found it really enjoyable to meet like-minded people and engage in a friendly game of football. I had a good laugh and look forward to future matches and being able to relate to other people, making mental health more approachable.”
Ashley Langford, P3 Mental Health Specialist Link Worker, described the games as “enjoyable, cardio-filled days for people to feel comfortable and safe to open up.
“It’s great to see: they get shattered from playing, in a good way, and it’s a form of mindfulness because they often find they haven’t been thinking about anything except the game the whole time.”
Rachel Smith, Health and Wellbeing Manager at the Wolves Foundation, added: “The last 18 months have been difficult on everyone’s mental health and we want to play our part to ensure everyone has access to activities to support their mental wellbeing.”
