A “POSITIVE, inclusive culture where mental health is understood” will be promoted at the Essex County FA’s forthcoming Mental Health Awareness Workshop, with Club Welfare Officers, committee members and officials invited to attend the free event in Chelmsford.
Delivered as part of County FA’s ongoing safeguarding activity, the workshop will raise awareness of mental health within grassroots football and provide practical guidance on how clubs can better support those involved in the game. The in-person session will take place on Monday 17th August from 6:30-8:00pm at the County Office.
The session has been developed following feedback from a ‘Voice of the Child’ mental health survey, alongside information gathered through 2025/26 season safeguarding data. Attendees will explore what mental health is, challenge common misconceptions and stigma, and consider how perceptions can influence the way people offer support to others.
The workshop will also help participants to gain a greater understanding of mental wellbeing, recognise when someone may be struggling and identify practical ways to provide support within a football environment. It will be delivered by Helen Hever and Jasmine Henry from the Essex County FA’s Safeguarding Team, and will also examine how the findings from Voice of the Child can be used to support everyone involved in grassroots football.
“We’re pleased to invite Club Welfare Officers, committee members and officials to attend our Mental Health Awareness Workshop,” explained Helen. “The workshop aims to promote a positive, inclusive culture where mental health is understood, respected and openly discussed, helping us to create a safer and more supportive game for everyone involved.”
To confirm attendance, clubs should contact a member of the Essex County FA’s Safeguarding Team via [email protected], providing the number of attendees from their club, along with each individual’s name and E-Mail Address. You can also contact the Essex County FA via www.essexfa.com and interact via social media.
