A FOOTBALL club is getting behind one of its young player’s campaign to raise awareness about mental health.

Eleven-year-old Ella Dagnall, who plays for Darlington Football Club’s under 12s team, launched the Thumbs Up With Darlo campaign to raise awareness and money for charities supporting people with mental health problems in the region.

Launched on the day before the second lockdown started, some of her plans have been put on hold, but Ella is still hoping to raise more awareness about the difficulties people may be having with their mental health.

Sarah Dagnall, Ella’s mum, said: “Mental health is really close to us because our son has been in hospital for three years because of it.

“Ella really wanted to raise awareness, with the help of the club, that it’s ok to not be ok and so people know where they can seek help.

“We’ve chosen three charities that Ella wanted to raise funds for because they are in desperate need of money to help others.

“At the moment that is social media based but we are hoping there will be other bits to it. We’ve got a lot of ideas and hopefully when the covid restrictions come down we can do some more.

“All of the girls section are keen to get involved in fundraising.”

Ella, who is a pupil at Hurworth School, chose to support the charities Darlington Samaritans, Darlington Mind and If You Care Share Foundation, which is based in Chester-le-Street.

Since it was launched, dozens of people have supported it online and have already raised more than £1,300.

Darlington Youth has donated £200, while Newton Aycliffe company Raisco Ltd has given £500.

Mrs Dagnall added: “Mental health affects everyone but some more than others.

“Ella has really missed her brother for so long. She wants people to know they shouldn’t be ashamed that they are not ok.

“A lot of people are struggling with mental health, especially during lockdown and sadly I’ve heard of people who have lost their lives.

“Getting the awareness out there that it’s ok to not be ok and to ask for help before it gets to that point is so important.”

A spokesperson for Darlington FC said: "Please join us in our movement to be kind, think positive, speak up and put your Thumbs Up With Darlo!"

To find out more about the campaign and to donate visit the ‘Thumbs up with Darlo’ page on www.gofundme.com or on Facebook.