The Trust was involved in a small pilot project late last year that identified not only improvements in the physical fitness of everyone who attended, but also significant improvements in participants mental wellbeing.
Adam Tutton, CEO of Bristol Rovers Community Trust said, ” This innovative new programme aims to harness the power of sport to improve peoples physical and mental wellbeing. It is open to any adults whether they want to get some exercise, build social networks, gain confidence in being around people or just help improve their wellbeing. We are delighted that the programme is being managed by Mental Health Support Worker Jacob Kelly and Nurse Bob Broomhead, both who have a wealth of experience in this area”.
One of the regular participants from the pilot programme said, “before joining the group I struggled getting out of the house and especially meeting people, but now I feel confident to talk to new people and socialise with others. As well as going to the weekly group, we also gained the opportunity to watch a Bristol Rovers match and walk out on the pitch in front of the crowd which was a brilliant experience. I’ve found that going to the football group and then standing in front of the Bristol Rovers fans has really helped build my self-confidence as well as improving my physical and mental wellbeing.”
The group is open to everyone over 18, male or female, from those who’ve never played football to the more experienced. The project is part of the Wellbeing College and was created by staff from South Gloucestershire AWP NHS service.
The sessions will run weekly from Thursday 7th June at 3pm, at Shaftsbury Park, Frenchay Park Road, BS16 1LG. If you would like to attend the group you’ll need to register via the link below or if you would like more information please contact the group organisers via email or telephone, details below.
https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/football-group-recovery-through-sport-tickets-45369907615
Contact details:
Email: Jacob.kelly@nhs.net
Telephone: Jacob 07785342192