We are Kick Start FC, a mental health charity based in Wiltshire that provides peer support in the form of football therapy. Using the power of football and an ethos of 'tackling the mind', we offer a safe and non-judgemental space that allows people to build the tools towards mental resilience. Our aim is to help ease the burden of those who are struggling with poor mental health, social isolation and loneliness.
Here in the UK, 1 in 4 adults and 1 in 6 children will experience a mental health problem. However, due to the stigma that surrounds itself to mental health, many of us don't get the help we need. By using football as a tool, we are challenging these barriers and encouraging people to 'tackle the mind'.
More and more people are beginning to appreciate the positive impact that playing sport or joining a community group can have on their mental wellbeing. Participating in sporting activities such as football have been proven to help ease symptoms of mental health problems such as depression and stress, offer an increase in self-esteem, and can also help reduce levels of anxiety. For some people, physical activity such as playing football can be just as powerful as medicine or therapy.
Our football therapy sessions are specifically designed to help participants manage symptoms of poor mental wellbeing, and encourage social inclusion.