MOTHERWELL FC MAKES NEW SIGNING TO TACKLE STIGMA OF MENTAL ILL HEALTH
Motherwell FC has once again shown their outstanding commitment to using their profile and links to the Lanarkshire community to increase understanding of mental health and to tackle the stigma of mental health ill-health.
Motherwell FC has also secured the backing of Hibernian FC, to raise awareness through linking in with the high profile televised match with Hibernian FC s on Wednesday 5th May. On match day key messages will be displayed, players will wear T-shirts, information will be given out to supporters and there will be announcements throughout the game. As well as this, Motherwell FC have re-signed the anti-stigma ‘see me’ pledge and will use their connections throughout the coming year to promote mental health and well-being.
Craig Brown, Manager of Motherwell FC said: “This is an issue that is certainly close to my heart. We all know people who have experienced mental health problems and how difficult that can be. Unfortunately, the problem itself can be made much worse by the attitudes of other people. Sometimes we all say things that lead to stigma without realising the damage it can cause. By understanding, listening and offering support you will help in a big way.. Anyone experiencing mental ill health, needs our support and understanding – not outdated labels and prejudices. I’m delighted that Motherwell FC can play a part not just for our own great supporters but also for everyone we come into contact with. Support your team, support your community but support ‘see me’ too.”
Suzie Vestri, Campaign Director for ‘see me’ who joined supporters at the match said, “’see me’ is delighted to work with Motherwell FC again and build new relationships with Hibernian FC to get the issue of mental ill-health out into the open. 1 in 4 adults (over 1 million) people in Scotland will experience a mental health problem and around 3 out of 4 of us will know someone with mental ill-health. Stigma makes people feel isolated and hinders recovery. Each of us has the ability to change that. For people with a mental health problem, how the rest of us deal with it really does make a difference. Just remember to carry on being the great friend or supportive family member you always were.'
For tips on how you can be a great friend and support to someone with a mental health problem, and pledge your support to see me, please visit the homepage of our new website www.seemescotland.org.”
Motherwell FC are one of over 150 organisations in Lanarkshire that have signed the ‘see me’ pledge to defeat stigma through taking action in their own areas, and collectively through the Lanarkshire Recovery Network which is supported by a number of organisations including NHS Lanarkshire, North Lanarkshire Council, South Lanarkshire Council and the Voluntary sector. On behalf of the partners, Ann-Marie Newman, Manager of Lanarkshire Links who chairs the Lanarkshire Recovery Network said, “mental health is everyone’s business, we need everyone to know that it is ok to talk about mental health, to know how to help themselves and others and that support and help is available. We also know that there is a link between physical exercise and good mental health and we hope to encourage people to take positive steps to look after their own and other people’s mental health. Working with Motherwell FC helps us to share this message. We are extremely grateful to Motherwell and Hibernian Football Clubs.”