Whaley Bridge Athletic FC and New Tupton Ivanhoe FC Partner with The Football Mental Health Alliance and Derbyshire FA to Undertake Mental Health First Aid Training

In a ground-breaking initiative to create a supportive and safe environment for all, Whaley Bridge Athletic FC and New Tupton Ivanhoe FC have partnered with The Football Mental Health Alliance to complete Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) training.

Both clubs are proud to announce their collaboration with The Football Mental Health Alliance by equipping the Club with a Mental Health First Aider to assist everyone connected to the club.

MHFA is a programme that helps to educate people how to identify and assist someone who is suffering from a mental health or drug use condition.

The training is intended to assist people in recognising early warning signs of mental health conditions, providing initial assistance and support to someone in difficulty and helping to connect them to external support.

Diane Coffey, Welfare Officer and Coach at Whaley Bridge said: “Understanding the crucial role that mental health plays in the overall well-being and performance of our community, Whaley Bridge is committed to being at the forefront of mental health initiatives in grassroots football. This collaboration with The Football Mental Health Alliance will enable us to recognise, understand, assist and signpost individuals who may be experiencing mental health concerns.

Sarah Cole, Coach at New Tupton Ivanhoe said: “MHFA training allows everyone attached to our Club to know that there is at least one individual whom they can approach to discuss mental health, enabling more people to spot potential signs of mental health conditions.”

Danny Matharu, Founder of The Football Mental Health Alliance said: “We are proud to be working with these two pioneering clubs. Their engagement in MHFA demonstrates their unwavering commitment to the mental health of everyone involved in both their clubs and communities. This partnership represents a significant stride towards our collective goal of having at least one person in every grassroots club mental health first aid trained.

“The benefits to having this training are numerous. MHFA can help to promote the importance of mental health and reduce the stigma around seeking help for mental health conditions. This can encourage people to speak up and seek help if they or anyone they know, are experiencing mental health challenges. This can lead to better overall mental health and well-being within the club, helping to create a more supportive and inclusive culture.”

Liam Rooney, Football Development Manager at Derbyshire FA added: “Mental Health First Aid empowers people to identify early signs of mental health conditions, it can lead to enhanced player performance, more resilient teams and improved communication as well as better safety, welfare and inclusion. 

“Mental Health First Aid Training is for anyone. The skills acquired through MHFA training are valuable and transferable, promoting well-being and mental health support in various aspects of life. 

“Derbyshire FA is delighted Whaley Bridge Athletic FC & New Tupton Ivanhoe FC have completed the Mental Health First Aid Training, which was delivered by The Football Mental Health Alliance.

“We are proud to work in partnership with The Football Mental Health Alliance to empower all our Football Clubs to raise awareness on Mental Health.” 

Mental Health First Aid Training is for anyone. The skills acquired through MHFA training are valuable and transferable, promoting well-being and mental health support in various aspects of life.

——

For more information on Mental Health First Aid Training, visit the Football Mental Health Alliance Grassroots Vault at: www.vault.thefmha.com