A group which works to raise awareness and improve people's mental health has announced its first-ever kit and partnership - and big plans for 2023.

Mental Health Football (MHF) Oldham was established by first team managers Ross Elliott and Andy Steel in 2019, who are both volunteers at AFC Oldham, with a view to improve people's mental health through physical activity and peer support in a "friendly, easy-going atmosphere".

The initiative sees players of all abilities, both men and women, come to participate in a commitment-free friendly game every Friday from 7pm at the Hathershaw College pitch.

MHF Oldham prides itself on being a "pressure and judgement-free environment" where participants can simply turn up, play, watch or chat with their fellow Oldhamers.

"There are no expectations, no scorelines, no winners or losers, just players", the website reads.

With the club inching towards its fourth birthday, it has gone on to win a handful of awards including 'initiative of the year award' at the Oldham Sports Awards and 'grassroots project of the year award' in 2021 by Manchester FA.

MHF Oldham was also the runners-up at the North West Sports Awards.

Now, however, it has announced its first-ever kit and partnership with the mental health charity, Samaritans.

In a post on social media, MHF Oldham said: "Introducing our first-ever MHF Kit.

"Samaritans have got our back."

The Rochdale branch of the Samaritans added: "Absolutely fabulous to be in partnership with a local group."

Ross also confirmed January 2023 will see MHF Oldham take off with a regular women's only session and a friendly match organised against another team.