Since joining Derby County Community Trust’s ‘Get Set to Go’ programme in 2019, 35-year-old John has seen a positive transformation within his life, citing the activity of playing football and meeting new people as the driving force.

The ‘Get Set to Go’ programme forms part of the ‘One Your Side’ partnership between mental health charity Mind, and the EFL, and is centred around the physical, social and mental benefits of being active.

Citing his reasons for wanting to get involved, John said “I was not motivated and I was often feeling anxious and depressed. I was not working so I would be just sat in my flat.

“I wanted to meet new people and get out of the house to do something different.

“Now, I feel a lot healthier and not as depressed, my medication helps but just getting out with the group makes a huge difference to me.

“I sleep better after football as I suffer from insomnia, so the exercise helps me to relax after playing. I also feel a sense of achievement when I have played, and in doing so, I have increased my wellbeing and self-esteem by being part of a great social group.”

The ‘Get Set to Go’ programme runs weekly sessions to encourage increased physical activity for participants dealing with mental health problems, something which John believes has helped him to focus on the future.

“I feel so much better in myself. I am more positive thanks to my experience with the group.

“Working with the staff has reignited my passion for football and fitness and has also given me the determination to become a qualified coach in the future.

“The support given to me since joining the group has been fantastic, I have increased my confidence and communication skills.

“Before I used to be a very quiet and quite a shy person. I have a good relationship with most players that attend and try to be a positive and supportive role model for the younger players.”

Get Set to Go