MENTAL HEALTH FOOTBALL IN WALES

welcome to mENTAL hEALTH FOOTBALL in WALES (MHFW)

MHFW is for adults in Wales with lived experience of mental ill health using football to connect and use as a positive tool in managing mental wellbeing.

Background

MHFW was established in 2020 during the coronavirus pandemic, initially the idea was to set up a group on social media where anyone who was struggling with their mental health during lockdown could interact with others, in the hope of alleviating feelings of isolation.

During this time the idea grew as we headed out of restrictions and MHFW was co-created between our members and founder. A brand new charity co-created from the very beginning WITH anyone who wanted to be involved being given an equal opportunity to do so.

MHFW is a unique charity owned by its members for its members with every one having a vote on its future development, direction, strategy and delivery. It was agreed very early on that our emphasis should always be on fun and everyone leaving our activities/events with a smile on their face, a constitution was drafted and MHFW became a registered Charity on 21st July 2020.

MHFW provides an opportunity to play football in a fun, inclusive, informal environment without judgement, encouraging and enabling people with lived experience of mental ill health to develop friendships, support networks and positive relationships with service providers.

The MHFW Community Network aims to become the lead point of contact for groups and individuals wanting to interact with others throughout Wales. This is achieved by building a network of groups who currently use football to engage with their target audience, whilst also advocating the use of football as a positive tool in managing mental wellbeing.

What you can expect at a MHFW event

can you help?

MHFW provides free, fun ‘Football for Wellbeing’ sessions to benefit mental health and wellbeing, with the emphasis focussed on fun and everyone leaving with a smile on their face.

Can you help us to continue this fantastic programme by donating towards our ongoing costs, all donations gratefully recieved.