Supporting Saints by Your Side Programme

Thanks to Connie Godwin at Saints Foundation for inviting Jonny and myself along to support the current cohort of men on the Saints by Your Side programme as one of the great initiatives they do for those struggling with mental health and other hurdles. Saints By Your Side is a mental health programme run by Saints Foundation in partnership with Southampton FC, giving local men the tools they need to better manage their mental health through in-person group support sessions.

It was so refreshing to see what impact this programme had for all those that turned up to the session. Kudos to all of them for grabbing the opportunity to talk to employers on how we can support them in finding the right person to speak to or that all important opportunity. We had some great conversations with all of them around the right focus in their CVs or where to start with joining the construction industry. We were joined by Lucy Richmond of Gracelands Ltd and Glenn Lickman of Encompass Geospatial Ltd who were also able to add valuable advice. Fingers crossed we helped even one of them find that next path to success which they all so deserve.

Some of the feedback we received shows how important it is to give them just an hour of your time to support them in getting back on their feet, help them build confidence with their careers and help them to get closer to reaching their full potential!

“ I found the gathering very useful in terms of input from potential employers / industry perspective and also learning stories from other local people and their situation. Help me not alone and that support is out there if you make the effort to look / accept offers for help."

"I received direct, significant and very helpful input regarding my CV alone. Also I have received sage advice concerning my own previous career path and particular mental and neurodivergent health issues. To that end I have been given individual contacts and awaiting communication relating to my potential future career path. All in all an extremely valuable experience. Thank you.”

“It was a great event and looking forward to seeing if any more come up in the future.”

“This was a super networking opportunity and also a chance to be encouraged by industry leaders with real opportunities that may lead to volunteering opportunities and employment. Many thanks to the Saints sponsor organisations that participated.“

What Is Saints By Your Side?

Saints By Your Side is a Southampton FC and Saints Foundation mental health initiative that offers advice and guidance to help fans and the people of Southampton better manage their mental wellbeing. This programme supports men in the local area through face-to-face group sessions held at St Mary's Stadium. The sessions offer participants a safe space and supportive environment to come together and learn ways to improve their wellbeing.

Saints By Your Side is open to men living in Southampton.

Follow the link below to register your interest and one of the team will be in contact shortly:

Register your interest to Saints By Your Side

If you have any questions about Saints By Your Side, contact Health & Wellbeing Coordinator Tsvetelina Georgieva at [email protected] or 07990 851723.