Tom Barrett posted on August 11, 2011 15:18
Saints Foundation continues to develop its charitable work in the local community and is now supporting Southfields, Tatchbury Mount Hospital as part of the Men’s Health programme Health Kicks. Part funded by the Football Foundation and Comic Relief, the programme aims to improve men’s health with a key topic of mental health and braking down barriers surrounding the stigma associated with such illnesses.
Football has proved a successful engagement tool for patients with the Foundation operating weekly sessions which has culminated in a week long coaching programme for 20 service users operating 5 hours per day. Participants suffer from a number of complex challenges affecting their lives and involvement in positive activities that are inspiring, motivational and delivered by the Saints Foundation has proved an overriding success.
Paul Willis, commented, “The partnership with Saints has really made a difference. We work with adults who suffer from a wide range of illnesses and who are looking to turn their lives around. Working with Saints creates a unique environment which is special for any football supporter and our lads are no different.”
“Attendance levels are excellent and the interest and enthusiasm shown has had a positive impact on their health, improving self esteem, confidence and a diversion away from the challenges faced in life. We have documented cases of better sleep patterns, less self harming and increase self worth and confidence all attributed to the Saints programme.”
Saints Foundation aim to sustain the successful pilot scheme in the future and welcome donation to support this objective. If you would like to make a donation or find out more about the work of the Foundation visits www.saintsfoundation.co.uk