Teams on the ball with mental health evening | News and events

Mental health services and organisations in Norfolk will be joining together at Norwich City Football Club for a night of unity and support.

Norwich City Fans’ Social Club is hosting a Mental Health Awareness Evening at the Norfolk Lounge at Carrow Road on Thursday, 18 January. Doors open at 6pm and the event starts at 7pm. Entry is free.

The ground-breaking event, which will be hosted by former Norwich City winger Darren Eadie, aims to foster a sense of community, understanding and support for those dealing with mental health challenges.

Special guests, including Norwich City player Onel Hernández, goalkeeper George Long and Sir Norman Lamb, a passionate mental health advocate, will be joining 22 mental health groups, including Norfolk and Suffolk NHS Foundation Trust, Norfolk and Waveney Wellbeing, Julian Support and Match of the Dads.

Kelvin Colbourn, Norwich City Social Club Volunteer and Community Development Co-ordinator Team Leader for Wellbeing Norfolk and Waveney has been helping to co-ordinate the event. He will be attending with the Wellbeing service, alongside NSFT’s Op COURAGE and Perinatal teams.

He said: “The Mental Health Awareness Evening is the social club’s largest and most important night of the year. The coming together of many local services creates a safe, informative and, in some cases, life-changing atmosphere. We are so thankful to Norwich City for the use of Carrow Road and the players who are open to talking about mental health. We hope this will inspire others to do the same.”

Stephen Curnow, Deputy Service Manager for Op Courage Integrated Veterans Wellbeing Service, said: “We are always grateful for opportunities to highlight our service for armed forces veterans. Many veterans gravitate towards football in order to replicate the camaraderie, identity and activity that they have previously found in the armed forces. However, the transition into civilian life remains challenging for many, characterised by increased incidence of poor mental health, unresolved trauma, socio-economic disadvantage, and loss of role and purpose.

“This event will highlight what we can offer and also the quick and easy ways in which veterans can self-refer.”

Kelly Moulds, People Participation Co-Ordinator for the perinatal service, said: “With one in 10 men experiencing a mental health condition during the perinatal period, it is so important to be aware of local grassroot organisations where we can signpost someone if they need support. Attending this year’s event will give us the opportunity to promote our partners’ offer and have the opportunity to ask men for feedback about our services. It is so important to have these conversations and begin breaking down the stigma of mental health.”