An Oldham community group that was set up as a way to play football in a supportive environment is celebrating seven years of helping people with their mental health.
Mental Health Football (MHF) was launched in January 2019 by AFC Oldham volunteers Ross Elliott and Andy Steel.
The original idea was to host a free weekly game of football in a judgement-free and supportive environment, giving people the opportunity to play, watch and have a chat in order to improve their mental health.
Seven years later and the group has grown massively, with its work being recognised regionally.
Mr Elliott said: “The aim of MHF is to help improve attendees mental health using physical activity and peer support, in a friendly, easy-going atmosphere.
“We had seven people at our first session, and now average between 40 and 50 each week, so it's fair to say we've grown.”
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What started as a small kickabout in Oldham has grown to have a regional impact.
In October 2019, MHF won 'Initiative of the Year Award' at the Oldham Sports Awards, followed by the runners-up spot at the North-West Sports Awards.
In 2021, Manchester FA announced Mental Health Football as their 'Grassroots Project of the Year.'
The group's work to tackle stigma, raise mental health awareness and fundraise has seen them enjoy occasional friendlies against similar initiatives and like-minded projects and even seen the group play friendly games at the stadiums of Oldham Athletic, Rochdale, Wigan, Blackpool and Bury.
Discussing the work and impact the group has had, Mr Elliott said: "We’ve created friendships and support networks, won awards, launched a football kit with Samaritans, taken on additional volunteers, trained up 14 people to be Mental Health First Aiders, raised money and donations for Samaritans, Mind and Manchester Foodbank, and given our volunteers and attendees wonderful experiences at football stadiums.
"Most importantly, we’ve talked, shared stories and experiences, laughed and looked out for each other. MHF has helped those with depression, anxiety and social isolation, amongst other problems and issues."
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In August 2025, MHF launched the ‘Spirit of MHF Award’ - a trophy given to "a champion of support, inclusion and the true spirit of MHF", with the winner selected each week by attendees and volunteers at the session.
The most recent winner was MHF volunteer, Tara Ellaby, who was nominated for checking-in with attendees, offering support and encouragement, and being such a welcoming presence every Friday.
MHF is held from 7pm to 8pm every Friday night on the outdoor 3G pitch at Hathershaw College on Bellfield Avenue, OL8 3EP.
It is open to men and women of all ages and abilities, newcomers are welcome and no sign up or commitment is necessary.
Mr Elliott concluded: "I’d like to say a sincere thank you to everyone who has supported us over the last seven years, including AFC Oldham, Husse Oldham, Oldham Athletic Community Trust, Pathlight Ltd and Samaritans.
"A huge thank you also goes to our brilliant volunteers and amazing attendees, they are the reason MHF works.”
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