We spoke to members of Cornish team Speak Out Utd Mental Health FC following their FA Sunday Cup match against Kraken Sports.

Despite the 9-0 loss for Speak Out Utd, the after-match chat was all about how were they formed and what their footballing ethos is.

‘Football saved me’ was a remark made in the bar.

Jack, their founder, shared that the team was started to rid the stigma of mental health by using football.

"The club provides a positive safe space to play football," he said.

"We want people to find a release, leave their problems on the side of the pitch and find friends and people who will share and listen. We believe in making football affordable and accessible to all, breaking down barriers and able to participate as the cost-of-living crisis really impacts on mental health, the club is about supporting each over, getting like-minded people together in a positive environment.

"Speak Out Mental Health is not just about football, it’s a community that cares."

Speak Out Utd Mental Health work with three charities in Cornwall:

• Man Down UK – Who provide informal peer-support talking groups all over the UK for men with mental health concerns.
• Georgia’s Voice - Preventing suicide in young women aged 18-25 in Cornwall.
• Sunrise – Who offer support to people exposed to suicide.

The Cornish side is growing with men’s, women’s and mixed teams from 6+ up, and their mantra is simple - 'Be Kind, Be You, Spread Love!'

We wish Speak Out United well for the season ahead and thank them for being so gracious in defeat and for sharing the positive messages, talking openly about mental health, getting rid of the shame and making the difference.