SAFC supporters and players get behind Foundation of Light Day
Sunderland AFC’s match against Queens Park Rangers was dedicated to the Foundation of Light and the day was well supported throughout by SAFC players and fans alike.
Our message is clear – no matter whether you’re a Mackem or a Geordie, look out for each other and don’t be afraid to ask the question ‘are you okLiz added: “#BeAGameChanger is just one of a number of initiatives we as a Foundation have in place to support and promote positive wellbeing. “Supporting the SAFC supporters’ group, the Sunderland Branch Liaison Council, the UK’s first Match Day Mental Health Hub was launched in November – a free drop-in service in the Beacon of Light on match days for fans, where they can access a trained volunteers and counsellors from Washington Mind. “We also host the NHS’ Veterans Mental Health Complex Treatment service and Northern Gambling Service in our Health and Wellbeing Zone in the Beacon of Light. “The #BeAGameChanger campaign really complements our existing work and will help us to continue to make a real difference to local lives by signposting supporters for life-changing programmes.” [video width="640" height="360" mp4="https://www.foundationoflight.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/Be-A-Game-Changer-VT-1.mp4"][/video] Ashley Lowe, Health and Wellbeing Manager at Newcastle United Foundation, said: “It is incredibly powerful to see Newcastle and Sunderland fans standing side-by-side. “Both cities are united by their love of football and we are using that passion for the two badges to start potentially life-saving conversations amongst supporters. “Suicide is the most common cause of death for men aged 20 to 49 and one in four fans coming to St. James’ Park and the Stadium of Light will experience a mental health problem at some point in their lives. “It is crucial we take meaningful action to reduce stigma, encourage men to access support and to make mental and physical wellbeing our top priority.” Suzanne Sleeth, Northumbria Police Suicide Prevention Coordinator, said: “National statistics show that suicide rates in the North of England are higher than anywhere else in the country. “As such, the North East and North Cumbria Suicide Prevention Network are working with partners across the region to address this, aiming to reduce both the number of suicides and the impact on those bereaved when it does happen. “We support the #BeAGameChanger campaign as it brings home such an important message: that we all need to talk openly about our mental health and wellbeing and look after it just as we would our physical health.” The #BeAGameChanger mental health awareness campaign was originally launched in February 2019 to encourage Newcastle United supporters to talk about how they are really feeling and recognise when they or their loved ones are in crisis. The #BeAGameChanger Facebook community is a growing source of comfort, advice and practical information for those experiencing mental health issues or friends and relatives supporting someone else. In a survey conducted with more than the 860 members of the community, 70 per cent stated the #BeAGameChanger campaign has changed the way they think about mental health and 40 per cent said they had since opened-up to someone about their own mental health.
Sunderland AFC’s match against Queens Park Rangers was dedicated to the Foundation of Light and the day was well supported throughout by SAFC players and fans alike.
You could own a unique piece of SAFC history, these shirts being the only ones to carry Foundation of Light’s Heart on your Sleeve logo.
Our Design a Ball competition winner, the Heart on your Sleeve football designed by Adrian Britton, is now on sale at the Beacon of Light reception.