Local football game played between a Norfolk mental health Service and a Dads group to promote wellbeing in the Norfolk community.

The Norfolk Wellbeing Service took on a select ‘Match of the Dads’ group at Norfolk FA’s Football Development Centre in Bowthorpe, Norwich. The 7-a-side game was organised as part of the new partnership formed to encourage anyone who maybe struggling with their Mental health to reach out for help. The Wellbeing Team was made up of staff across the organisation including Clinicians, Employment Advisors, Peer Support Workers and Community Development Coordinators. Although the game ended in an enthralling 14-1 win to the Match of the Dads team, everybody enjoyed the run out and it was the social and awareness aspect that was the real winner.

Organising the event was Kelvin Colbourn, a Team Leader for The Wellbeing Service as well a participant in the Match of the Dads League, he said:

“We have used today to get the two organisations together, develop the relationship further, and open dialogues about how we can help each other further to reach those that maybe struggling. We have some brilliant idea’s come out of today and look forward to working closely together going forward. Everyone had a great time and left with smiles on their faces and that’s the really important thing for us, we look forward to the re-match!”

Adam Kemp, Chief Operating Officer for Match of the Dads added:

"A hugely successful event to kick off our partnership together in helping Dads in our community, we are very excited to take part in more events, workshops and sessions together in the future."

After the game the teams came together for refreshments and a chance to socialise and chat openly in the bar at theFDC, Bowthorpe.

To learn more about how the Wellbeing Service may be able to help please visit Home - Wellbeing - Wellbeing (wellbeingnands.co.uk) and if you are interested in joining the Match of The Dads group please go to Homepage | Match of the Dads.