Every week is Mental Health Awareness Week at Cambridge United, especially for Cambridge United Community Trust and the Forever United team...
The Forever United programme was introduced to help tackle isolation and the feeling of loneliness amongst seniors in the community. They provide support across Cambridgeshire hosting a number of social activities every month to help create social connections and promote good mental health.
From Abbey Wellbeing Walks and Jolly Joggers, to Senior Lunches and Afternoon Teas, Cambridge United Community Trust provides a range of activities and social events for members of the community who may otherwise be left feeling isolated.
To mark the Mental Health Foundation's Mental Health Awareness Week, we are shining a spotlight on one of the Trust's Walking Football sessions, which was followed by a well deserved post-match tea and coffee social for the players to catch their breath with a cuppa.
"I live on my own so I have found it hugely helpful to be able to socialise in with people with a similar interest as me," Ann Stephenson said. "It is such a lovely way to meet new friends and keep fit."
Gareth Jones added, "I personally get a fantastic buzz from playing football again and being part of a wider group. It is great for our mental and physical health and I know the players look forward to the cup of tea and chat afterwards as much as the football."
Finally, Andrew Stephen said, "If it wasn't for Walking Football there is no way I would still be playing competitive sport at nearly 70. There are a lot of benefits to our physical health but more importantly a lot of my friends who have suffered from serious depression have been given a permenant lift by the sessions.
"For a number of people this is the only social activity they do and at a time of isolation and loneliness its importance is greater than ever."
Follow the Trust on Twitter to find out more about the Forever United programme and the activities on offer, or email jake.potts@cambridge-united.co.uk if you would like to get involved.