Former Southampton players support men's mental health project

A group of former Southampton players visited a Saints By Your Side community football session on Monday, 11 May. The visit was intended to observe how the programme supports men's mental health within the city.

This event marks the start of a partnership between the Ex-Saints and the Saints Foundation. The former players have committed to providing funding to help make the project sustainable over the long term. This collaboration will also establish a referral system for ex-players who may need to join the programme, with the first group of players expected to start later this month.

Saints By Your Side uses weekly football sessions at the stadium to help men build confidence and reduce isolation. The programme creates safe environments for open conversation. During the visit, the former players participated in the football activities and spoke with participants about how the sessions help manage challenges and build friendships.

The visit was part of the Saints Foundation's activities for Mental Health Awareness Week. Paul Hedges, the Health Projects Manager at Saints Foundation, stated that the involvement of the Ex-Saints is significant for both the participants and the staff. He noted that their support helps reach more men and provides a pathway for former players to access help.

The Saints Foundation currently manages three main mental health initiatives. These include the weekly wellbeing programme at St Mary’s Stadium, a project for young people focused on emotional resilience and mentoring, and a matchday support hub. The hub is part of the Premier League’s Together Against Suicide initiative and provides guidance to fans at the stadium.

These initiatives are delivered with support from the Premier League Foundation, the Professional Footballers Association, the Ex-Saints Association, and Advantage Mentoring.