Dunfermline Athletic FC Kick Start Anti-Stigma Campaign
Dunfermline Athletic FC formally pledged its support to 'see me' on Saturday 7th May by signing the ‘see me’ pledge during their final match of the season where they celebrated their promotion into the SPL by beating Falkirk 3-0.
The Pars Director of Football, Jim Leishman and ‘see me’ Campaign Director, Suzie Vestri signed the pledge on the pitch at half time in front of a crowd of over 11,000. By signing the ‘see me’ pledge, Dunfermline Athletic FC has shown its commitment to tackle the stigma of mental ill-health through an action plan.
Jim Leishman, Director of Football at Dunfermline Athletic FC says: “As a football club we are proud to be able to offer our support to the ‘see me’ campaign. It is more likely than not that we know someone who has experienced mental health issues and acknowledge that stigma and discrimination can stand in the way of recovery. By signing the ‘see me’ pledge we hope to lead the way by example and would encourage other football clubs to get on board by signing the ‘see me’ pledge.”
Suzie Vestri, ‘see me’ Campaign Director says: “By signing the ‘see me’ pledge here today, Dunfermline Athletic FC is making a valuable contribution to the ‘see me’ campaign. In signing the pledge they’re making a commitment to change perceptions of mental ill-health. We all have our role to play in stamping out the stigma of mental ill-health and I hope that today’s signing will encourage other organisations and individuals to re-address their attitudes to mental ill-health.”
'see me's campaign message was a major feature of the day's celebrations with staff, players and 'see me' volunteers wearing our t-shirts and distributing postcards promoting the 'see me' and Dunfermline Athletic Community Programme partnership offering activities and support to people with mental health problems.