A North East charity has received crucial funding to enhance its mental health initiative, Game of II Halves.

Sunderland AFC's official charity, The Foundation of Light is one of nearly 250 across Cumbria and the North East to receive a share of recent National Lottery grants.

The programme focuses on men aged 16 and over in Sunderland, providing them with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to promote mental resilience.

The Foundation has partnered with Samaritans, using football to spark substantial discussions around mental health, especially amongst vulnerable men who are typically under-represented.

The initiative also aims to reduce the stigma attached to self-harm and suicide while promoting wellbeing.

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(Image: Bryan Farnie)

Participants gain access to a range of activities and workshops, including SHUSH training to enhance listening skills, dedicated match days, and mental health-related experiences at Sunderland AFC Fan Zone.

Game of II Halves also involves the training and recruitment of community ambassadors and further directs individuals towards other supportive networks within the city.

Alan Johnson, a retired NHS manager and Game of II Halves ambassador, said: "Having the Foundation of Light running mental health education is very important for the people of Sunderland.

"It helps provide healthy mental health education and signposting to many vulnerable people in the city.

"I am proud to wear my Game of II Halves hoodie and do my bit on behalf of our city."

Lee Crosby, head of informal community education at the Foundation of Light, pointed out the project's importance: "The Game of II Halves project is crucial for men aged 16 years and upwards in Sunderland.

"Raising awareness helps in identification and interventions, preventing these issues from escalating."