November is Men’s Health Awareness month, and at Blackpool FC Community Trust, we are proud to support initiatives that encourage men in our community to take care of their physical, mental, and emotional well-being. We are committed to harnessing the power of football and community engagement to reach men of all ages, emphasising the importance of regular health check-ups, healthy lifestyles, and open discussions about mental health.
Through our programmes, we aim to break down the barriers that prevent men from seeking support. Whether it’s encouraging men to attend routine medical screenings, participate in fitness sessions, or join our mental health workshops, we provide accessible ways for men to prioritise their health.
Here are sessions we deliver that are designed to promote mental and physical wellbeing:
Our group men’s talking group takes place every Tuesday evening between 5:30pm and 7pm at Aspire Sports Hub for those 18+.
We also have Get Vocal the Podcast, hosted by Jack Sprigg, each episode features special guests and aims to get men talking about their mental health. Listen to our most recent episode where we talk Blackpool FC’s Tony Parr here.
Active Minds addresses the growing demand for mental well-being outlets and support. There is often a stigma associated with mental health, Active Minds combats that by promoting positive well-being through the power of sport.
We have developed Active Minds to positively impact the lives of local people, create a sense of belonging, encourage new friendships, and improve physical and mental well-being.
Active Minds utilises various facilities across the town to provide accessible football sessions for all. Anyone aged 18+ can get involved.
Regardless of whether they have ever kicked a ball before. Everybody is welcome.
Unified football positively supports mental health every week through physical activity and creating stronger peer-support networks.
These sessions are free to attend and offer a safe space for participants to exercise and talk.
Join us on Wednesdays at Stanley Park, West Park Drive, FY3 9HU, 2pm-3pm
We hold walks around Stanley Park each week for local people to come together for a moderate walk and a chat. It’s a great opportunity to meet new people and enjoy light exercise.
This weekly walking group for those aged 18+ get together to help each other combat loneliness, while also getting exercise every Tuesday at Blackpool Cricket Club from 1:30pm to 3:30pm and is free to attend.
If you’re a man that wants to lose weight, grow your social circle and improve your wellbeing, MAN v FAT is behind you all the way. Our philosophy is simple: all the information, support and tools you need to improve your health, with a refreshing no-nonsense approach.
MAN v FAT Football is for men with a BMI of 27.5 or over. If you’re looking to get in shape, meet new friends and improve your wellbeing, we can help.
Free Screening for Men aged 65+
Alongside getting physically and mentally active did you know the NHS has a free screening programme for all men aged 65 and over, and it could potentially save your life!
It is a simple scan of your stomach, and it looks for an Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA). This is a swelling in your aorta, which is the main blood vessel in your body. An AAA has no symptoms and can be fatal if it bursts, but if it is caught early by screening that means it can be monitored or treat it if necessary.
It is 6 times more common in men aged 65 and over, which is why you will be automatically invited to an appointment during the year you turn 65. If you are over 66 and have never been screened, it is not too late!
Call Lancashire and South Cumbria Screening Services on 0191 445 8747 to book or change your appointment and visit www.gatesheadhealth.nhs.uk/services/aaa to find out more.
