Headstart Programme Supporting Latics Fans’ Mental Health in Secondary Schools
In partnership with the EFL Trust, Greater Manchester Moving and the Greater Manchester Integrated Care partnership, Wigan Athletic Community Trust have been delivering the mental health transition programme, HeadStart, to support students in primary and secondary schools across Wigan and beyond.
The programme is designed to support pupils who might struggle with problems like anxiety or low confidence, the programme focuses on teaching different coping strategies, such as how to deal with new environments and social situations, giving them the skills they need to thrive in and outside of school.
One student who has been supported by the programme is Deanery High School student Kian, who has seen a huge increase in his confidence and engagement in lessons since starting the programme.
“I think the bottom line with Kian is he loves football and he loves Wigan Athletic. So having that badge there and really showing him that we can be positive by using football and physical activity is a way that we got through to Kian. We were able to use the badge in a really positive way and help Kian in the way that he needed helping.
Trafford Grimes, Mental Health Transition Officer with Wigan Athletic Community Trust
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