TESTIMONIALS
"My first session was pre-lockdown and I was a little anxious beforehand. I wanted to meet new people as I am relatively new to the local area. What I enjoy now is that it is a consistent social activity and all the guys who turn up are spot on. It's also a good opportunity to talk about mental health if I ever needed to speak out." - Oliver Ryan
"My first session was back in March time just before the lockdown period. I had seen a post advertising Kick Start FC on Facebook and thought I would give it a try. I have always enjoyed playing football and the guys who turn up are a good laugh I have enjoyed coming to the sessions. It’s also a great way to speak out if you have anything on your mind. I would totally recommend it." - Rob Yates
TESTIMONIALS
"My first session was pre-lockdown and I was a little anxious beforehand. I wanted to meet new people as I am relatively new to the local area. What I enjoy now is that it is a consistent social activity and all the guys who turn up are spot on. It's also a good opportunity to talk about mental health if I ever needed to speak out." - Oliver Ryan
"My first session was back in March time just before the lockdown period. I had seen a post advertising Kick Start FC on Facebook and thought I would give it a try. I have always enjoyed playing football and the guys who turn up are a good laugh I have enjoyed coming to the sessions. It’s also a great way to speak out if you have anything on your mind. I would totally recommend it." - Rob Yates
How do I talk about my mental health?
Putting your feelings into words is sometimes difficult. It’s perfectly normal to be worried that you might say the wrong thing or explain it badly. It’s also natural to feel anxious that your loved one or friend might think your mental health is worse than you might feel it is.
Try not to worry – talking about your mental health is incredibly important when it comes to getting the right support for you and with the right preparation the conversation can be easier than you think it might be. Here are a few tips on how to talk about your mental health.
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HOME TACKLING THE MIND
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SHINING A SPOTLIGHT ON MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS WEEK
Monday 12th May 2025
Every year, Kick Start FC proudly hosts a football tournament in May to observe Mental Health Awareness Week. This event is a highlight of our calendar, providing an opportunity to shine a spotlight on mental health, promote wellbeing, and bring our community together through sport.
This year, we invited service users from our Men’s, Women’s, and Walking Football Therapy sessions to take part in the tournament. Using a six-a-side format, we welcomed over 55 service users across 8 teams, with creative team names such as Support County, Wellness Wanderers, Mind City, and Self Care Athletic—all chosen to reflect the spirit of Mental Health Awareness Week.
Mental health affects us all. In the UK, 1 in 4 people experience a mental health problem each year, and 9 out of 10 people living with mental health challenges report that stigma negatively impacts their lives. Events like our Mental Health Awareness Week Tournament play a vital role in breaking down barriers, challenging stereotypes, and encouraging people to seek help or take proactive steps toward recovery. Through football, we create a safe, supportive environment where participants can connect, share experiences, and feel understood. The tournament is not just about the competition—it’s about building confidence, community, and wellbeing for everyone involved.
With over 2 million people currently on waiting lists for mental health support in the UK, raising awareness of accessible interventions is more important than ever. At Kick Start FC, we are committed to ensuring that individuals in our local community know that help is available and that they are not alone in their journey. Events like this tournament allow us to promote our services and provide practical, therapeutic support while participants wait for professional care.
The Mental Health Awareness Week Tournament was a day full of energy, teamwork, and positivity. From inspiring performances on the pitch to moments of laughter and camaraderie off it, the tournament showcased the power of football to unite people, boost wellbeing, and spark important conversations around mental health.
Check out some of the photos from this year’s tournament to see the action, smiles, and teamwork in full flow.
Get Involved
Football Therapy Registration Form
Mental Health Awareness Workshop
Legal Information
Confidentiality Policy
Kick Start FC is a charitable incorporated organisation. Charity no. 1203577
Affiliated to the Wiltshire Football Association
Working in partnership with:
Campaign Against Living Miserably
Resources
FA Mental Health Guide For Coaches
England Football Respect Campaign