HeadStart was founded by a team of volunteers who have lived experience of poor mental health and recognise the positive impact football has had on their quality of life. Our aim was to create opportunities for individuals who are struggling with their mental health to take part in physical activity and be part of an inclusive community where people with shared experiences can feel understood, supported and less alone.
We have a wonderful team of volunteers who have a wide range of training, including relevant safeguarding, mental health and football qualfications.
CEO and founder
I have seen firsthand the positive benefits football has on people's mental health, particularly non-competitive football. This inspired me to create a space where individuals can enjoy taking part in activities that improve their physical and mental wellbeing, promote social connections and create a safe space for people to express themselves.
I am extremely passionate about supporting individuals with their mental health through non-traditional appraches. My goal is to create accessible, welcoming spaces where individuals feel comfortable reaching out for the support that they need.
Founder and session lead
The main reason I wanted to create HeadStart was because of the ways football has helped me develop and improve my mental health.Alongside experiencing positive effects of football, I have also experienced the negative side of competitive football and the ways in which it can deter people from participating and counteract the wellbeing benefits of football.
I wanted to create a safe space for people to experience non-competitive football where the focus is on physical activity, building social connections and improving wellbeing.
Safeguarding volunteer
Volunteering with HeadStart has allowed me to see how much of an impact our sessions and events have on people's wellbeing. You can see how much people look forward to the weekly sessions just by watching them play! Meeting up with such lovely people every week really helps your own wellbeing and highlights the importance of having such organisations available to people of all abilities, especially those who have struggled with their mental health.
Volunteer
I wanted to volunteer for HeadStart because I have experienced how football has helped my mental health and wanted to help other people in the same way.
I also enjoy taking part in the sessions to improve my own mental wellbeing.