Football fans were encouraged to open up about mental health during a special matchday initiative at Oxford City FC as part of the club’s Game For Good campaign in partnership with Response.
The Marsh Lane club joined forces with Oxfordshire’s largest independent mental health charity to raise awareness of its tailored services and supported accommodation, which help transform lives across the county.
Discounted tickets were offered to supporters online, with 50 per cent of each ticket purchased using a dedicated code donated directly to Response.
Charity representatives greeted fans at the turnstiles with information about their work and met players from both the men’s and women’s teams before kick-off.
The initiative follows new research from Samaritans revealing that 64 per cent of football fans struggle with their mental health.
More than half (54 per cent) said they would never raise the subject within their football friendship groups, while 61 per cent admitted avoiding conversations about their feelings due to fear of negative perceptions within football culture.
Jess Kerridge, representing Response on the day, said creating space for positive conversations is a vital first step.
“Our perception of mental health and how we speak to others on the topic has shifted dramatically in the last decade for all the right reasons,” she said.
“However, in places there remains a stigma attached to having feelings of ill mental health – and football is one of those areas as Samaritans’ survey of 2,000 fans found.
“We offer a combination of accommodation and person-centred support to help people with their recovery, with the ultimate aim of helping people back into independent living and contributing positively to their communities.
“To discuss this and allow fans the opportunity to proactively learn more about how we work with those who require our help was a great opportunity, and we thank Oxford City FC for allowing us to be part of its Game For Good.”
After the final whistle, Hoops defender Charlie Wiggett was presented with the Player of the Match award by Response.
The player has been backed this season by quality management specialists TotalQ, who donated the benefits of the club’s player sponsorship package to the charity.
The partnership will continue in April, when individuals supported by Response will attend a VIP matchday experience for Chester’s visit to The MGroup Stadium in the National League North.
Andrew Gate, Head of Media at Oxford City FC, added:
“Despite increased awareness, many people do still – sadly – find it difficult to open up about their mental health challenges.
“Any opportunity to encourage people to get talking is worth exploring, which is why it was our pleasure to host Response pitch side, and we look forward to continuing our collaboration as the season progresses.”
