Bromley Football Club are delighted to announce that Sue Whittaker, our Club Welfare Officer and Academy Operations Manager, has become a Kent FA Mental Health Champion.

The Club would like to congratulate and thank Sue, who undertook the relevant training programme earlier this year, for her continued efforts in maintaining and improving the level of welfare support afforded to our young participants and players.

In February, the Club are planning to launch a week long awareness campaign, alongside National Children’s Mental Health Week, to highlight the support and help available to youngsters.

In the meantime, if you are 19 years of age or younger and looking to reach out for support, please contact welfare@bromleyfc.co.uk

Full details on the Kent FA’s Mental Health Champions initiative can be read below;

One in ten young people are experiencing a mental health issue at any one time, and shockingly, suicide is the leading cause of death for those aged 5-19. In addition to this, in an average group of thirty 15 year olds:

• Seven are likely to have been bullied
• Six may be self-harming
• One could have experienced the death of a parent

The Kent FA have recognised the power of football to help us understand, support and listen to young people. This includes those with poor mental health that are either unable or unwilling to seek support.

That’s why, with the support of the Tommy Crush Foundation and working in partnership with the longest established digital mental health provider in the UK, Kooth, the Kent FA will be training 58 volunteers to support young players.

Kent FA Mental Health Champions will be encouraged to run an event within their club or league to raise awareness of the support available and they’ll be able to signpost young people to professional care if they need it.