Chesterfield FC and police helping tackle mental health

Chesterfield FC Community Trust, along with partners Men-Talk and Fem-Talk, has recently been working with the East Midlands Special Operations Unit (EMSOU) to tackle the issue of mental health in the workplace.
Taking part in the event are Scott Atkinson (left), of Chesterfield FC Community Trust’ and Jason Cotton from Men-TalkTaking part in the event are Scott Atkinson (left), of Chesterfield FC Community Trust’ and Jason Cotton from Men-Talk
Taking part in the event are Scott Atkinson (left), of Chesterfield FC Community Trust’ and Jason Cotton from Men-Talk

Mental and emotional wellbeing is an increasing concern in such a high-pressure environment so the trust and the police have joined forces to help combat the problem.

Katy Harrington, EMSOU’s wellbeing lead, explained that the collaboration came about after she attended the Chesterfield FC Player of the Year awards last May.

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She said: “A video for one of the awards showed how footballers go out into the community and talk about a wide variety of issues including mental health.

“As the wellbeing lead for EMSOU, I thought this would be a good opportunity to demonstrate to our officers and staff that even athletes who are at the top of their game suffer from mental health issues and that it’s ‘okay not to be okay’.

“I would like to thank Chesterfield FC Community Trust, Men-Talk and Fem-Talk for taking time to come and run a session for us.

“Both sessions were well supported and I have only received positive feedback.”

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Scott Atkinson, the trust’s head of education and wellbeing, added: “We’re delighted to be working alongside EMSOU, Men-Talk and Fem-Talk to deliver this important initiative.

“Our wealth of experience in this area clearly demonstrates the benefit of resituating mental wellbeing services in a non-clinical environment, providing a safe and secure space where rank can be left at the door and attendees can speak freely and openly in complete confidence.”

Chris Haward, Derbyshire Police deputy chief constable, commented: “Our mental health is so important, we all go through difficult times and often struggle in silence and only seek help when it’s too late.

“Our conversations in the first meeting were very open and honest, and allowed us to share similar experiences.

“It showed me how others do understand and how important talking about our mental wellbeing is and how we can all support each other if we are prepared to take the first steps and talk.”