The York City FC Foundation brought together mental health charities and groups from across York to increase awareness of support available in the city, at the Minstermen’s home match against Aldershot at the weekend.
The Foundation welcomed charities including Kyra Women’s Project, North Yorkshire Sport Welfare, Menfulness, Serendipity Counselling York, Andy’s Man Club and others to the LNER Community Stadium, where groups were invited to host market style street stalls outside the main entrance to hand out information, answer questions and speak to fans before the game, and then able for them and their participants or volunteers to stay to watch the game..
The match was the latest designated ‘Foundation Fixture’ sponsored by York-based housebuilder Persimmon. These fixtures see 500 free tickets distributed to community clubs, groups and organisations across York, with this particular fixture chosen to help promote mental health following the recent National Self Care Week.
Paula Stainton, Foundation Manager said “We’re delighted to be continuing to work with Persimmon for a fourth year, and their support with the ticket initiative for Foundation Fixtures ensures that we can make York City matchdays accessible for everyone. With 3000 tickets being available each season, we are able to work with so many different organisations to focus on supporting young people especially to be able to attend and enjoy the incredible experience of a live football match, something many of us take for granted.”
Scott Waters, Regional Managing Director at Persimmon said “We’re proud to be working with partners like the York City FC Foundation to help shine a light on mental health.
In the construction industry in particular, we know the impact of and sometimes tragic outcomes that can be related to mental health.
That is why in addition to the industry and government wide initiatives we are actively involved in, we’re also working with local partners across the country including with some of the fantastic organisations present at the weekend.”