Legend backs LFC project
Liverpool legend David Fairclough was joined by comedian Jamie Sutherland at Anfield this week as the pair took part in a celebratory lunch for the 'Imagine Your Goals' over 50s project.
Tuesday's event was a perfect way to round off the LFC Action for Health programme and saw all the participants gathering at Anfield to look back on a successful scheme.
Along with its partners, Time to Change, Mersey Care NHS Trust, Liverpool PCT and Age Concern strive, LFC's Action for Health programme continue to work tirelessly for better social inclusion for people across the United Kingdom with mental health problems.
It is part of England's most ambitious programme that works to end discrimination faced by people with mental health problems, working under the principles of the 'Five Ways to Wellbeing'. They are 'Connect, Be Active, Take Notice, Keep Learning and Give'.
And as part of 'Imagine Your Goals', which is funded by the Premier League and Sport Relief, LFC NHS Health trainers have helped members of the scheme to formulate their own, personalised health plan and to become physically active by joining in with others in the Lifestyle Centres throughout the city.
Mark Haig, LFC Health Programme manager, said: "We seek to engage people in their local community centres and to support them in making small lifestyle changes that can have big health benefits.
"We do this through activities, a healthy lifestyle, and contact with appropriate NHS support. This programme aims to overcome social isolation and increase confidence."
Sue Baker, director of Time to Change, said: "We now know that attitudes towards mental health issues are beginning to move in the right direction. We want to use the powerful influence of football to help level the playing field for people with mental health problems.
"Football can be a very positive force in helping shape public attitudes and we are delighted that the Premier League is taking a lead role. By working together with clubs, supporters and wider local communities we will be able to achieve our ultimate goal of ending discrimination."
Today at Anfield, Liverpool will host a meeting of all the clubs involved in the 'Imagine Your Goals' programme.