Stevenage FC

Stevenage Football Club is joining forces with Samaritans this International Men’s Day to remind supporters that Samaritans are there to listen 24/7…

Volunteers will be at The Lamex Saturday on Saturday 18th November, as Stevenage host Lincoln City in League One.

Samaritans volunteers from Stevenage and North Herts branch will raise awareness of the charity’s successful Real People, Real Stories campaign, which encourages men to seek help if they are struggling to cope.

The activity will be held a day ahead of International Men’s Day to remind everyone of the importance of taking care of their mental health and looking out for others.

The campaign highlights the power of human connection through sharing reflections from men aged between 20 and 59 who have struggled to cope and found hope after seeking support. 

With the cost-of-living crisis and many other challenges people are facing, talking and listening to one another has never been more important.

Last year, 23,000 people volunteered for Samaritans and the charity continues to answer a call for help every 10 seconds.

The charity’s partnership with Stevenage FC has been facilitated through a partnership with Hertfordshire County Council and Stevenage Borough Council, both of which have been supporters of the Real People, Real Stories campaign.

Hannah Marsh, Head of Health and Wellbeing at Stevenage FC Foundation, said, “We are pleased to be teaming up with Samaritans this International Men’s Day. As a Club, we are committed to the mental health and wellbeing of our players, staff, and fans.

“The theme for this year’s event is ‘Zero male suicide’, which is why we think it’s essential to demonstrate to our fans and the broader community that if you’re feeling low or struggling to cope, it’s okay.

“This is an important subject that we are proud to support. We encourage anyone who is suffering with their mental health to reach out and ask for support. There is no shame in saying that you are struggling.”

Anne-Marie Alderson, Regional Development Lead at Samaritans, said, “Two in five men aged 20 to 59 in England, Scotland, and Wales don't seek support when needed because they prefer to solve their own problems.

“Our Real People, Real Stories campaign invites more men to speak up and seek help. Whatever you’re facing, contact Samaritans free – day or night, 365 days a year.”

To find out more information about Real People, Real Stories, go to https://www.samaritans.org/support-us/campaign/real-people-real-stories/.

Anyone can contact Samaritans, free, 24/7, 365 days a year, on 116 123, email jo@samaritans.org or visit www.samaritans.org.

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