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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Communities unite for mental
health at the Safe Haven Gala
Kick Start FC was proud to once again be selected as one of the beneficiary charities of the Safe Haven Mental Health Gala, an inspiring annual event dedicated to raising awareness of mental health and suicide prevention while supporting vital community services.
Now in its fifth year, the gala has become a significant event within the local community, bringing together more than 150 guests each year to promote understanding, encourage open conversations around mental health, and raise funds for organisations making a positive difference in people's lives.
The evening not only shines a spotlight on the challenges faced by many individuals and families affected by mental health difficulties, but also celebrates the power of community, compassion, and collective action in creating meaningful change.
Over the past few years, Kick Start FC has been fortunate to be selected as one of the gala's chosen charities, and we were honoured to receive support once again this year.
The funds raised through events such as the Safe Haven Mental Health Gala play a vital role in helping us continue delivering our Football Therapy programmes, wellbeing initiatives, and community projects. These services provide opportunities for people to improve their mental health, reduce social isolation, build confidence, and develop meaningful connections within supportive environments.
As demand for mental health support continues to grow, community-led initiatives and fundraising events remain essential in ensuring that organisations like ours can continue supporting those who need it most.
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The gala once again provided an opportunity for guests to hear powerful personal stories from individuals with lived experience of mental health challenges and suicide.
This year's speakers included Marcus Tisson, John Wood, and Neil Levy, better known as DJ Peanut, who each shared moving and deeply personal accounts of their own journeys. Their honesty, courage, and resilience left a lasting impact on everyone in attendance and served as a reminder of the importance of empathy, understanding, and speaking openly about mental health.
Their stories reinforced the message that recovery is possible, support is available, and that conversations can save lives.
During the evening, Kick Start FC Founder Michael Cunningham addressed guests and shared the story behind the organisation's work within the community.
Michael spoke about the positive impact of Football Therapy and how football can provide a powerful platform for improving mental wellbeing, building confidence, reducing isolation, and helping individuals reconnect with their communities.
He explained how Kick Start FC aims to help people "kick start" their journey towards recovery, creating safe and supportive spaces where individuals can take positive steps forward at their own pace.
Thanks to the incredible generosity of guests, sponsors, donors, and supporters, the gala raised an outstanding £8,000.
The funds raised will be shared between Kick Start FC, United Minds Hampshire, and the Safe Haven Mental Health Project, helping each organisation continue delivering essential services, wellbeing programmes, and community support initiatives.
Every pound raised will contribute towards improving lives, supporting mental wellbeing, and helping to ensure that people facing challenges can access the support and opportunities they need.
The Safe Haven Mental Health Gala continues to demonstrate what can be achieved when communities come together with a shared purpose.
We would like to extend our sincere thanks to the organisers, speakers, sponsors, volunteers, and everyone who attended and supported this year's event. Your generosity and commitment to improving mental health awareness will have a lasting impact on individuals and communities across the region.
We are already looking forward to next year's gala and another opportunity to celebrate hope, resilience, and the incredible power of community support.
To learn more about the Safe Haven Mental Health Project and the important work they do, please visit their website.
Charity Partners
Kick Start FC is a charitable incorporated organisation
Registered Charity Number 1203577
Affiliated to the Wiltshire Football Association