CYP Now - How football sessions tackle mental health stigma

Group therapy harnesses the power of sport to engage with young people experiencing difficulties who might not be reached through conventional counselling.

Sport & Thought sessions give young people the space to play out their emotions and reflect on their feelings among peers

PROJECT

Brent Centre for Young People's Sport & Thought programme

PURPOSE

To support young people with emotional and behavioural difficulties to access therapy through football

FUNDING

Children in Need and the Hargreaves Foundation provided funding totalling £53,914 in 2021/22. The project received additional funding from participating schools

BACKGROUND

Sport & Thought sees trained psychotherapists deliver football-based group therapy sessions to young people. The approach was developed by psychotherapist Daniel Smyth who had a background in youth work and saw the potential for football to help reach young people – and boys in particular – who may be less likely to attend conventional counselling due to stigma or shame attached to seeking help.

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