Norfolk FA celebrate three year partnership with Norfolk & Waveney Mind
Norfolk FA celebrate three year partnership with Norfolk & Waveney Mind
Over the last three years, the partnership between Norfolk FA and Norfolk and Waveney Mind has been a beacon of community support, focusing on mental health within grassroots football in our county. This collaboration, which began with a vision of utilising the wide reach of football to address mental health issues, has been incredibly successful with thousands of pounds raised. But more importantly, the awareness of striving for positive mental health and the resources available has increased.
The partnership was officially announced at the Norfolk FA Volunteer Awards 2021 with the intent to utilise football's extensive community network to promote mental health awareness and reduce stigma. Ashley Bunn, former Director of Strategy and Business Development for Norfolk and Waveney Mind, highlighted the significance of this alliance, noting the increased demand for mental health services and the potential of football to reach broader audiences.
One of the primary focuses of the collaboration has been on education. Through workshops, and awareness campaigns, both organisations have worked to educate football clubs, coaches, players, and fans about mental health. This education aims not only at recognising signs of mental health issues but also at fostering an environment where discussions about mental well-being are normalised and encouraged.
Over the last three years, Norfolk FA have joined in multiple fundraising and awareness campaigns such as physical challenges like ‘3K-A-Day’ and a recent steps challenge with an aim of getting people active and outside for better mental health. The Association has also raised awareness of services available and Norfolk & Waveney Mind’s work by joining events such as Do Blue Day, World Mental Health Awareness Day and charity functions.
The partnership's impact extends beyond football. By embedding mental health initiatives within a beloved sport, it has inadvertently influenced community perceptions and behaviours towards mental health. The visibility of mental health discussions in football settings has encouraged broader societal acceptance and understanding, making it easier for individuals outside of football to seek help. The strength of the partnership was recognised at Norfolk & Waveney Mind’s AGM in 2023 when Norfolk FA were presented the Partner Wellbeing Initiative of the Year Award.
The collaboration between Norfolk FA and Norfolk and Waveney Mind stands as a testament to how sports can be a powerful vehicle for social change, particularly in addressing mental health, a topic increasingly recognised as crucial in today's society. Both organisations will continue to work together in a reduced capacity, with dedicated pages for mental health published on Norfolk FA’s website.
Norfolk County FA Chief Executive, Matt Carpenter, said: “The partnership between Norfolk FA and Norfolk and Waveney Mind has not just been about football; it has been about fostering a community where mental health is as vital as physical health. We are committed to using the power of sport to break down barriers, promote mental well-being, and ensure our players, coaches, and all involved have the support they require, on and off the pitch.”