Thursday 22 February 2018 14:37, UK
The EFL and mental health charity Mind are joining forces to promote the benefits of healthy bodies and healthy minds.
From the start of the 2018/19 season, Mind will become the EFL's new Official Charity Partner with a goal to enhance and improve the way that football, sport and society approach mental health.
With one in four individuals affected by mental health problems, the EFL will work with its network of 72 clubs and community trusts to promote Mind's message and services to millions nationwide with four ambitions to promote better mental health.
The EFL's objectives include:
a) Supporting EFL players, managers and staff
b) Raising awareness about mental health with fans, clubs and staff
c) Raising funds to deliver life-changing support
d) Improving the approach to mental health in the EFL, in football and in wider society
EFL Chief Executive, Shaun Harvey, said: "The partnership between the EFL and Mind offers us a unique opportunity to foster positive health and wellbeing of millions of individuals who have a connection with football, whether they are players, supporters or work within the game.
"We know that improving mental health is a huge challenge in society, especially for men, but through this partnership, we will be proud to help raise awareness about mental health, reduce stigma and hopefully have a positive impact on the lives of millions of individuals who currently suffer in silence."
In addition, the EFL has confirmed that a legacy relationship will remain in place with Prostate Cancer UK beyond the end of the current season.
Over the last six years, the EFL has forged a highly successful charity partnership with Prostate Cancer UK that has raised over £3m oflife-changingg funds for the cause, reached millions of football supporters and raised awareness of the disease which now kills one man every 45 minutes in the UK.
