Fusion Lifestyle, Bedford Borough Council and the Bedfordshire FA have launched Tuesday evening Just Play, Just Talk Football sessions at John Bunyan Sports Centre.
The one-hour sessions for adults, from 8:30-9:30pm, aim to encourage interaction and positive mental wellbeing, bringing people together through football.
After an initial six-week pilot, the sessions have become firmly established and will now run on an ongoing basis. There are also plans to expand to more Fusion leisure centres in Bedford Borough.
The sessions offer the opportunity to meet like-minded individuals and the chance to socialise, engage in physical activity and most importantly use the platform for positive mental wellbeing.
Aaron Colbert, Sports and Community Development Manager for Fusion Lifestyle in Bedford commented, “We know that some adults find it hard to open up and talk so bringing people together through a shared interest in football is a great way to break the ice. The sessions are fun and friendly and provide a forum for talking and interaction.”
Co-ordinator, Tony Mepham, said: “It’s fantastic to play football and to talk about problems with a friendly bunch of people.
“I come to these sessions because I did suffer with mental health. I was in a very bad place, and I didn’t have anyone to talk to. It feels like a big weight has been lifted and things have been put in place to help.
“Talking is key to any sort of mental illness, whether it’s depression or anxiety. Talking about it is the best thing I ever did. It saved me and has made me a better person.”
Amrit Bains, of Bedfordshire FA, said: “There are numerous stresses and worries which could impact mental wellbeing therefore it is vital everyone takes care of their mental health.
“These sessions are the perfect way for people to use football as a tool for positive wellbeing. We are very pleased to be working with Fusion Lifestyle and Bedford Borough Council to run initiatives such as these for the community.’’
Those interested in joining the sessions should email aaron.colbert@fusion-lifestyle.com or amrit.bains@bedfordshireFA.com
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