Michael, an Argyle supporter for 14 years, has been supported by Argyle Community Trust since being introduced by his brother to our Active Through Football sessions, a social football programme aimed at increasing physical activity and improving mental wellbeing.

He was unemployed at the time of his referral, and it was not long after the pandemic. This gave him an opportunity to get out of the house and meet people.

Micheal became lost around this time and felt like he didn’t have a purpose. He disengaged with the programme and became homeless, was a missing person for a week, and began to have suicidal thoughts.

A timely intervention from Active Through Football lead Trevor, who also acts as a mentor to support participants, often calling or messaging especially when participants stop engaging, got Michael back on track.

Michael returned to the Active Through Football programme and began taking part in the Mindfullness Wellbeing Walk in partnership with mental health charity Devon Mind. With the support of Trevor and other participants Michael found a place to stay and they gradually helped him build back up again.

Tragically, Michael’s father passed away suddenly and unexpectedly; someone he loved deeply and spoke to every single day. This affected Michael profoundly, and this began a steep decline in his mental wellbeing.

Calls from Trevor and the team provided Michael with the support and encouragement to get back involved in sessions to support him through this extremely difficult time. Michael was amazed at the response, something he hadn’t experienced before.

Michael’s confidence and mental wellbeing began to improve. He was introduced to Pledge 35, the volunteering aspect of Project 35, a social impact initiative aimed at reducing poverty.

The football sessions, walks and volunteering gave Michael structure, a support network, friendships, and improved confidence. Michael now feels there is someone there for him and he has purpose.

Michael’s empathy and character has meant he has become a key member at all sessions, leading on volunteering and acting as a friend and mentor to others on the football sessions and walks and he has become an incredibly popular member of the team.

Michael said: “In most cities, the football team is the hub. The Community Trust brings a lot of communities together, and a lot of experiences together.

“The support I have received is something I am really thankful for.”

Michael now has the confidence to go to match days at Home Park, something he had never done before, and admits his mental strength has come a long way and he is now more mentally resilient, doing things he never thought he would do, being active, and meeting different types of people in the community.

'The support I have received is something I am really thankful for'

'The support I have received is something I am really thankful for'