LFC Foundation teams up with Spirit of Shankly to host Big Red Talk event
On Friday December 11, LFC Foundation teamed up with supporters union Spirit of Shankly to host the Big Red Talk – a live virtual event in support of fans' mental health.
The night was a huge success with around 100 participants tuning into the event to take part in various workshops to help educate fans on the importance of mental health, speaking your mind and caring for your personal wellbeing.
Thanks to the various organisations from across Liverpool who took part:
- Mental health organisations: James' Place, Sean's Place, Mind Map.
- Media partners for the event: BOSS Night plc, The Anfield Wrap.
- Fan Groups: Spirit of Shankly, Spion Kop 1906, Liverpool Disabled Supporters Club.
A special thanks to our guests, Clive Tyldesley and Chris Kirkland, who gave their support to the event.
On the night, we had live music from local Liverpool singer Jamie Webster as well as an interactive virtual quiz hosted by ‘the Voice of Anfield’ George Sephton, where fans had the opportunity to win exclusive LFC prizes and club merchandise.
Kirkland was interviewed by The Anfield Wrap, sharing his experiences of overcoming mental health issues as well as offering fans advice on how to cope, speak up and seek professional help when struggling with mental illness.
The event received great feedback and was applauded for its honest approach to mental health and the hard work that went into creating it.
"Thank you for all your hard work putting this together tonight. Events like these make a difference and they do and will save lives. You should all be very proud – YNWA"
"Fantastic. What a nice, refreshing way to look at mental health... I liked how you used the stats to relate to fans and the club. Very well done – YNWA"
Through this initiative, LFC Foundation is looking to abolish the taboo surrounding mental health and encourage men and women to speak out and seek support when struggling.
The event was part of LFC Foundation's collaboration with Spirit of Shankly to deliver a new, season-wide mental health project for supporters.
The project, which was announced on World Suicide Prevention Day, is funded by LFC Lotto as part of LFC Foundation's adult health programmes and Spirit of Shankly.
Liverpool FC also has a dedicated team of safeguarding specialists who can offer help and support. For more information, click here.
LFC Lotto is operated by BD Sport Ltd. and is regulated by the Gambling Commission. License numbers 000-050123-R-327621-002 and 000-050123-N-327622-002. www.begambleaware.org. Players must be aged 16+. UK only.