Mental Health Awareness Week

Man Utd Foundation inspiring children to discuss mental wellbeing

11 May 2021

Man Utd Foundation, Mental Health Awareness Week v3

Club distributing books and balls to help young people keep mentally and physically active

This Mental Health Awareness Week, the Premier League is highlighting positive wellbeing activities, stories and resources to raise awareness of mental health and support fans with information that can benefit them.

Manchester United

The coronavirus pandemic and subsequent lockdown has had a significant impact on people's mental health, particularly youngsters, for whom a lack of support, routine and social interaction has left many feeling isolated.

To inspire young people to think about and look after their mental wellbeing, Manchester United Foundation has teamed up with the publishers DK to distribute more than 5,000 balls and copies of the book United Minds: Be positive. Be curious. Be united to children living in deprived areas of Greater Manchester.

The book, for children aged between 8-12, features club-themed activities, advice and self-care tips.

"As a parent, I know how important it is to encourage children to look after their mental health as well as their physical health," club captain Harry Maguire told the Foundation's official website.

"My advice to any young person is to talk about how you're feeling and seek help from your coaches, teachers or family when you feel down."

MU Foundation coaches have also produced videos of activities that children can complete at home or in school to support discussions around mental health.

See: MU Foundation's wellbeing activities playlist

Children and teachers throughout England and Wales can find a range of free resources to promote discussion of emotions and looking after mental health at Premier League Primary Stars.