Bangor 1876 participate in new football and mental health project

Bangor 1876 are one of the first football teams in Wales to be awarded a grant to participate in an innovative project that links football and mental health.

‘We wear the same shirt’ is an initiative run in collaboration with Mind Cymru and the FAW Trust. It will allow people affected by mental health issues to come together to discuss their challenges, and also participate in fun football sessions.

Director of football Iwan Williams says: “We have already engaged with Mind Cymru, and with several of our board members, coaching staff and supporters working within health boards, we are looking to reach out as far as possible.”

He added: “Mental health is a big issue right now, and for some people there is a stigma about seeking help. We are hoping that providing support through football may encourage people who haven’t previously sought help to come forward and be part of this initiative.”

The ‘We wear the same shirt’ sessions will be open to people of all ages and run by Iwan Williams along with several helpers.

They will begin on Monday 23 March and take place at Bangor University’s Treborth playing fields, where Bangor 1876 play their home games. Anyone who is interested in taking part or finding out more can contact Iwan Williams via e-mail (iwan185@hotmail.com).

Bangor 1876 wishes to thank the FAW for their help in funding this initiative and for Dafydd Evans of our Women’s section in helping facilitate the initiative.