Since 2019 East Fife Community Football Club has offered a place for Fifers aged 16 years plus. It is a place where people can reach out and be understood for what they bring to the table, or in this case the football pitch.
The project was steadfast in ensuring that it was open to all no matter how people identify. The foundation of the success of the project is a cup of tea, a pair of boots and a ball, not forgetting the magnificent 3G pitch at East Fife FC.
Along with this is Alan and his team’s passion, commitment for using football as an engagement tool for people to talk. The football pitch is a very unique and open place where people can mingle with peers, enjoying sportsmanship and a great deal of humour. This allows for trust to be built and the talks that are facilitated by Alan and his team allow people the space to express.
Alan Lowe states ‘Thursday mornings are a great example of how the community comes together to support one and other. The football and the banter within the group is testament to all those that attend, and it is great to be giving back and supporting the participants.
In suicide prevention week the community club is raising awareness of this free opportunity at East Fife FC Bayview Stadium, on Thursday’s at 10.30am on the main pitch. There are people here that are passionate about being there for people and understand that people do not necessarily want to talk all the time and by attending is enough. The community club have been instrumental in bringing in local mental health organisations inclusive of the Scottish Association for Mental Health-SAMH.
SAMH mental health information has been shared in an open space and suicide prevention has been discussed. It is something that the whole community has a role in preventing and supporting people going through suicidal thoughts. The partnership working between the community club and SAMH, has grown from connections made through the SAMH Anti-Stigma Football Tournament and Family Fun Day that runs each year at East Fife FC…returning next year after being cancelled this year.
Ross Reilly states, ‘Football is at the heart of our culture here in Fife and to be part of a ground-breaking initiative as Alan has developed is just absolutely amazing. I have attended a few times and I am always inspired by the passion, humour and togetherness shown by people attending. I have experienced suicidal thoughts through my own mental health journey, I would say to anyone there is hope and there are people that understand. You do not have to go through suicidal thoughts alone places like East Fife FC and Sam’s…a mental health drop in based in Kirkcaldy and Dunfermline where I work are available with people that understand. Please understand you are not alone…we are here for you’ www.samscafe.org.uk
We look forward to seeing you at the Stadium on Thursday. Our regular participants along with our community squad will make you feel welcome and whether you want to chat or play, the choice is yours.
Contacts:
Alan Lowe (EFCFC) Tel: 07710532424 mail alan.lowe@efcfc.co.uk
Ross Reilly (SAMH) Tel: 01592 214003 Email: ross.reilly@samh.org.uk
Websites: www.eastfifecommunityfootballclub.com
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