Mental Health conditions affect 1 in 4 people at some point during their lives, yet the stigma around using mental health services stops many people from seeking the help they need. Shrewsbury Town in the Community mean to tackle this through offering mental health sports sessions for those working through, or living with, a mental health condition.
Head’s Up looks to engage adults who are working through or living with a mental health condition. With an hour-long football session, we hope to keep participants fit, release the feel-good factor and boost self-esteem. Our trained and supportive staff will help participants to feel welcome, safe and supported with no pressure or expectations.
Following the football sessions participants are invited to stay for refreshments and engage in peer-support, take part in activities that promote good mental health, hear guest speakers talk from partner organisations and share their own experiences.
These sessions aim to:
- Raise awareness of mental health conditions.
- Reduce the stigma surrounding mental health conditions.
- Provide a weekly physical activity session in order to help achieve a positive mental well-being.
- Demonstrate the importance sport can have in tackling mental health problems.
Session Details
Day: Thursday
Time: 1pm – 2pm followed by refreshments and support time until 3pm
Venue: Mercedes-Benz Football Hub, Montgomery Waters Meadow, Oteley Road, SY2 6BF
Cost: £3
If you or someone you know would benefit from a space place to do some exercise, meet some new people and gain useful resources to support good mental health, please complete the form below or contact [email protected]
Find out how the sessions have helped Matt on his journey below:
COVID-19 Response
In order to provide our Head’s up participants with support during this time of social distancing we have set up a Facebook group where members can still interact with each other and allow them to stay in contact with us. Along with this we have put together a resource pack for everyone who may be struggling with advice and points of contact.
If you would like any more information or would like to be involved in Head’s Up, please email [email protected] or ring 01743 289177 ext 225.
Sign up form
FAQS
Can I just turn up?
Yes! You can just turn up on the day. On arrival all you will have to do is fill out one of our participant forms so we can get a few details from you in case of an emergency. If you would like to arrive earlier to chat to our coaches about how you are, please do so. There is no pressure, we are here to support you.
What about Covid-19?
We are still running sessions in line with the government guidelines. We ask participants to come ready to play, as the changing rooms will closed. The hub building will be open for toilet use only. We would ask participants to sanitise their hands before and after playing. Equipment will be cleaned before and after your session by a member of staff.
Can my carer come with me?
Yes, carers are welcome to attend the session, they can play for free or simply watch. We don’t currently have the facilities open for tea or coffee, so if a carer were to sit and watch the session, it would be advised they bring a warm coat.
Can my carer leave me?
Yes, please discuss this with the coaches and staff members at your first sessions. We take this on a case-by-case basis.
What should I wear?
Please wear comfortable sportswear such as a light top and shorts or joggers. In terms of footwear, please bring either trainers or football boots with molded studs only. Please also bring a bottle of water to stay hydrated.
What if it is raining?
Weather does not affect us! We are out playing come rain or sunshine, so you get your weekly walking football and exercise.
What if I have other health conditions?
Please disclose your existing health conditions with your coach. You details are confidential and won’t be shared with anyone except staff members on a need-to-know basis. If you require medication, such as an inhaler, glucose, epi-pen – It is ESSENTIAL that you bring this to your session. If you fail to bring your medication, you won’t be allowed to participate in the physical activity.
