Today, World Mental Health Day, Spirit of Shankly stand united with those facing mental health challenges, especially within our community. 

Football has a unique power to connect people, on and off the pitch, and we believe it can help change and even save the lives of those struggling with mental health issues.

Eighty-four men take their own lives in the UK every week – 84. According to the Office for National Statistics, the biggest cause of death for men under 50, from a range of ethnic groups, is suicide. 

We know that many football fans, many who fill the stands at Anfield, fit that demographic and a huge number struggling to cope will be regular matchgoers.

That reality hit home for many Reds supporters with the loss of Liverpool fan Neil ‘Yozza’ Hughes in 2016. It was a turning point, shedding light on the importance of doing more to check up on each other beyond the casual chats on matchday.

In response, SOS joined the Time for Change campaign, supporting their Be In Your Mate’s Corner project, and partnered with local charities such as Paul’s Place and the Liverpool Mental Health Consortium. 

Our aim was to spread awareness, to listen and to provide support. 

We were also involved with the Through the Storm documentary, working alongside Liverpool FC to share stories from former players Jason McAteer and Chris Kirkland, and Yozza’s father, Peter Hughes, highlighting the devastating impact of suicide and the importance of speaking up.

Since our 2019 AGM motion to support and promote those working to raise awareness, we’ve continued to champion mental well-being, from events such as The Big Red Talk with the LFC Foundation to ongoing partnerships with local mental health organisations.

Our message remains the same: it’s okay to not be okay. 

If you feel you’re struggling, the best step is to talk to someone — whether that’s a friend, a family member, or a designated service. 

We have new plans in the works to strengthen this mission and support our community on matchdays and beyond. Details will be shared soon. 

For now, let’s keep the conversation going and look out for each other – a simple “how are you?” can make a world of difference to someone.

To all of our members and supporters: you will never walk alone.