Foundation help young Newcastle United supporter Blake ‘feel safe’ during covid anxiety

A 12-year-old struggling to cope with severe anxiety and stress during lockdown has been helped to “feel safe” through mental health support from Newcastle United Foundation.

Lifelong Newcastle United supporter Blake first came into contact with the official charity arm of the Club when his relationship with his schooling broke down.

Diagnosed with Asperger’s Syndrome and anxiety, disruption to regular school days and staff shortages exacerbated Blake’s stress and the end of a routine caused him to stop attending school altogether.

But with a targeted intervention and gentle guidance from Newcastle United Foundation’s new Youth Wellbeing programme, Blake was given the tools and confidence he needed to work towards a new routine.

“The Foundation makes me feel safe,” Blake said. “School was difficult sometimes and I didn’t always feel happy there.”

Launched at the beginning of the 2021/22 season, the Foundation expanded its existing Health and Wellbeing provision to offer tailored mental health support for children, teenagers, and young adults.

Through funding from The National Lottery Community Fund, the programme allows for young people in contact with the Foundation to be referred to dedicated staff members able to offer a safe and comfortable space to discuss their feelings and how to work towards better mental health.

I saw [Kieran] Trippier on the day that he signed as he was at the stadium. It was amazing.

- Blake, Newcastle United Foundation Participant

Blake continues to work with the Foundation during Children’s Mental Health Week – an initiative raising awareness young people’s mental health and encouraging every generation to consider mental wellbeing, no matter their age.

“I really enjoy playing games and using stress toys with the Foundation,” Blake said. Alongside one-to-one wellbeing sessions with Helen McDermott, Mental Wellbeing Practitioner at Newcastle United Foundation, Blake has also been able to enjoy opportunities through Newcastle United Foundation such as stadium tours of St. James’ Park – the home of Newcastle United.

Blake said: “I saw [Kieran] Trippier on the day that he signed as he was at the stadium. It was amazing.”

Newcastle United Foundation continues to strive to provide better mental health education for all, with the award-winning Be A Game Changer mental health awareness campaign offering free health and wellbeing support services for anyone who needs them.

Duncan Nicholson, Head of Regional Funding for the North East and Cumbria at The National Lottery Community Fund, said: “We are touched by Blake’s story. Stories like his highlight why projects supporting young people’s mental wellbeing are important.

“Thanks to National Lottery players, we are thrilled to help fund Newcastle United Foundation’s positive work which will enable young people to prosper and thrive.”

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