With this week being Mental Health Awareness Week, we were delighted to welcome several local mental health organisations to Brunton Park on Saturday 3 May, including:
- Andy’s Man Club Carlisle
- Samaritans
- SMMILES – The Well
- Every Life Matters
- Carlisle Mencap
This collaborative event aimed to raise awareness of the vital services these groups offer, particularly in the lead-up to Mental Health Awareness Week, which runs from Monday 12 to Friday 16 May.
Each organisation delivered a presentation in the Study Centre, sharing insights into their work and how they support the community. Following the talks, representatives engaged with fans in the Northern Competitions Fan Zone, providing information and resources to promote mental well-being.
CUFC EDI Lead, Teresa Mulholland said: "Carlisle United remains committed to supporting mental health initiatives and fostering a community where everyone feels supported and valued.
“Mental Health Awareness Week is a chance for us to come together as a community and support one another. By hosting these organisations at Brunton Park, we aim to break down stigmas and ensure our fans know where to turn for help.
"Football has the power to unite, and we're proud to use our platform to promote mental well-being.
“The club also continues to support mental health through initiatives like the Mental Health Football sessions run by the Carlisle United Community Sports Trust, offering adults experiencing mental health issues an opportunity to engage in friendly, small-sided matches that promote exercise, socialisation, and self-esteem."
For more information on the participating organisations and their services:
Andy's Man Club - A men's support group that provides a safe and non-judgmental space for men aged 18 and over to talk about their struggles and challenges. Their goal is to eliminate the stigma around mental health and male suicide, offering a peer-to-peer environment where men can feel comfortable sharing their experiences.
Email: info@andysmanclub.co.uk
Every Life Matters - Aim to create suicide-safer communities through training, campaigning, resources and support to those bereaved and impacted by suicide.
Email: info@every-life-matters.org.uk
Mencap - Supports individuals with learning disabilities, their families, and carers while working to improve the lives of people with learning disabilities by providing information, advice, and support services and by campaigning for changes in laws and services.
Email: Sonia.McMillan@carlislemencap.co.uk
Samaritans - Provides 24/7 confidential emotional support to individuals experiencing distress or despair, offering a listening ear and support without judgment.
Phone: 116 123
SMMILES (The Well Communities) - For people experiencing mental health illness and co-existing substance abuse, supporting those facing significant challenges in their daily lives due to co-existing conditions.
Email: smmiles@thewell2.co.uk