Brentford Football Club, alongside the Brentford FC Community Sports Trust, is taking significant steps to promote mental health awareness this season with the launch of the 'Talking is the Best Tactic' campaign. This initiative is part of the Premier League's Together Against Suicide program, which aims to leverage the influence of football to spark meaningful conversations about mental health.
The campaign will be prominently featured during Brentford's upcoming match against Sunderland, marking a continuation of efforts that began last season. The club is actively encouraging its supporters to engage in simple yet impactful actions that could greatly benefit someone struggling with mental health issues.
In a recent development, Brentford FC installed a new bench in Gunnersbury Park, which is the sixth bench added to the area, aimed at providing a space for the community to pause, connect, and engage in conversation. This initiative is part of Brentford's long-standing commitment to mental well-being, inspired by the work of consultant psychologist Michael Caulfield. His bench at the Robert Rowan Performance Centre (RRPC) serves as a confidential space for players, coaches, and staff to discuss their mental health in a safe environment.
On match day, prior to the kickoff against Sunderland, fans will have the opportunity to visit the RRPC bench located outside Entrance B at Gtech Community Stadium starting at 12:30 PM. Here, supporters can make personal commitments to mental well-being and learn more about available resources. Trained representatives from the Brentford FC Community Sports Trust and the Samaritans will be present to offer information on health and well-being programs in the local area.
This season's 'Talking is the Best Tactic' campaign emphasizes the importance of small actions in fostering better mental health. The fixture against Sunderland is designated as the Friends and Family match, allowing Brentford members (excluding overseas and junior members) to purchase an extra ticket for a friend, family member, or someone they haven't seen in a while. This presents a valuable opportunity for fans to reconnect, spend quality time together, and initiate important conversations about mental health.
Brentford FC Community Sports Trust is dedicated to providing free initiatives that encourage community interaction and support, including programs like 'Singing for Thought' and 'Walking for Wellbeing.' The former is a seven-week program designed to uplift spirits and foster connections through music, while the latter is a community walking group aimed at improving well-being through outdoor activities.
For those facing mental health challenges, Brentford emphasizes that support is readily available, and no one has to navigate their struggles alone. The club has made resources accessible for urgent and local help, encouraging individuals to reach out when needed. For immediate support, individuals are advised to call 999 in emergencies or contact NHS urgent mental health support via 111.
As part of the campaign, local pubs in west London will distribute special coasters featuring information on urgent mental health support during the match day. The initiative acknowledges the disproportionate impact of suicide on men, who account for nearly three-quarters of suicides in the UK. 'Talking is the Best Tactic' aims to foster a culture where individuals feel empowered to discuss their mental health openly.
Throughout the 2026/27 season, Brentford Football Club will continue to champion mental health awareness, urging supporters, staff, and the wider west London community to contribute to a supportive environment where conversations about mental health can thrive.
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