Mental Health Awareness Week took place last week throughout the UK and at Bolton Wanderers in the Community (BWitC), a variety of sport sessions and wellbeing workshops are provided each week for those in need of support.
On Monday, BWitC launched their Walk and Talk session in which participants will take part in a relaxed three mile walk which starts and begins at the University of Bolton Stadium with the aim of the project being to improve and maintain physical and mental health through low intensity exercise in a safe and relaxed environment.
This project works alongside the existing Team Talk and FITFANS projects which both provide physical and mental benefits.
Team Talk is a weekly male mental health session which aims to tackle the stigma around male mental health in an informal and relaxed setting whereas FITFANS is a 12-week weight loss programme to support healthier lifestyles.
On Tuesday, a Panathlon Challenge North-West Deaf Kurling Event was held for primarily deaf pupils in primary and secondary school, some with a range of disabilities.
BWitC have a long-standing relationship with Panathlon Challenge which provides an opportunity for children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) to represent their school in a sports team, competing against children and young people of all abilities and disabilities.
Below are some comments from local teachers, highlighting the important benefits that these events have on the children’s mental health.
“It’s fantastic that young people with disabilities get together to meet, support and engage with each other.
"This event was so good for the children’s awareness of children with similar disabilities. This is turn inspires confidence, improves their social skills and raises self-esteem.” – Jo Disley, Educational Communicator, Hathershaw College.
“Inclusive sport is paramount to mental development so it’s fantastic to see a variety of abilities enjoy the event.
"It’s been a pleasure to work with BWitC & Panathlon throughout the year to bring our students out of their shell.” – Craig Jones, ASC Resource Manager, Wilmslow High School.
Finally, the Extra Time Hub is an ongoing project which provides the opportunity for over 50s to socialise, form new friendships and do the things they enjoy.
This includes weekly gatherings at the stadium for a varied combination of face to face and online group activities. Activities vary from quizzes, arts and crafts and music to walking football, table tennis, yoga or just a chat and cup of tea.
If you'd like to get involved in some of the sessions and initiatives that Bolton Wanderers in the Community run, please visit their website by clicking here or by emailing enquiries@bwitc.org.uk