One year ago, Brentford Football Club and Brentford FC Community Sports Trust launched ‘Talking is the Best Tactic’, highlighting the importance of conversation and encouraging our community to take the time to talk to one another to support our mental health and prevent suicide.
On World Mental Health Day, we are keeping the conversation going.
Throughout the past 12 months, the campaign has helped to raise awareness of suicide prevention, highlight the support available and create more opportunities for people to connect, listen and seek help when they need it.
Across the club and Trust, football continues to provide a powerful platform in bringing people together and fostering a sense of belonging.
Active listening and support
This season, the club has strengthened the support available on matchdays by training additional mental health first aiders. These colleagues are equipped to provide initial support, listen without judgement and signpost people to professional services when needed.
The club has also partnered with Samaritans to deliver ‘SHUSH’ listening training to stewards, helping them build the confidence and skills to support fans or colleagues experiencing emotional distress.
We also introduced Talking is The Best Tactic coasters in local pubs and in Gtech Community Stadium, which include a link to resources for those who want to seek help for their mental health, including emergency support.
More spaces for reflection and conversation
One of the first initiatives delivered through Talking is the Best Tactic was the installation of a community bench, providing a simple space for people to pause, connect and reflect.
Since then, five further benches have been installed across west London, including the latest addition in Gunnersbury Park. Inspired by the bench introduced at Brentford's training ground by consultant psychologist Michael Caulfield, each location serves as a visible reminder of the importance of connection, listening and checking in with one another – and a place to do so.
Starting with simple actions
Last month's Premier League fixture against Sunderland was dedicated to Talking is The Best Tactic and the Premier League's Together Against Suicide initiative. Supporters were encouraged to take simple actions that can make a meaningful difference, whether checking in on a friend or reaching out for support themselves.
By temporarily transporting our bench from Robert Rowan Performance Centre, for players, coaches and staff to come together and talk, we asked our fans to share their own reflections and thoughts on the importance of conversation.
Building connection
Brentford FC Community Sports Trust has continued to hold free programmes which help our community come together. Nobody should feel they have to face challenges alone.
These initiatives include:
Singing for Thought: A welcoming seven-week programme designed to boost mood, build confidence and bring people together through music. Led by an experienced choir leader, sessions are relaxed, fun and open to everyone. No previous singing experience needed - just bring your voice!
Walking for Wellbeing: A friendly community walking group designed to help people get outside, connect with others and improve their wellbeing. The group is a supportive space for anyone who wants to meet new people, build confidence or increase their daily step count weekly, every Friday.
A year of progress, a continuing commitment
Brentford remains proud to highlight how Talking is The Best Tactic and support the Premier League's Together Against Suicide initiative, and to be working alongside supporters, colleagues, partners, and the wider community to break down stigmas and encourage people to access support.
Meaningful support doesn't always start with expertise or solutions. Often, it starts with taking the time to listen, checking in with someone you care about or simply being present.
Sometimes the most important question we can ask is: How are you?
Support is available
If you're struggling with your mental health, or you're concerned about someone else, support is available.
Samaritans: Call 116 123, free, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
You can also find information and resources through Brentford's Talking is the Best Tactic initiative.
You don't need to be in crisis to reach out for support.