Staffordshire FA  partners with The Football Mental Health Alliance to Launch Groundbreaking Neurodiversity Training for Grassroots Football.

In response to the growing prevalence of neurodevelopmental conditions like ADHD and autism, Staffordshire FA and the Football Mental Health Alliance (FMHA) have launched a transformative training programme titled “Understanding Neurodiversity in Grassroots Football.”  

The initiative aims to educate coaches, players, referees and parents/carers on how to effectively support neurodiverse players and their families, creating more inclusive and empathetic football environments across the game. 

With thousands of individuals waiting for diagnoses and current systems struggling to meet the demand for neurodevelopmental support, this training equips clubs with practical strategies for adapting coaching methods, managing match-day scenarios and creating an inclusive atmosphere. The FMHA’s goal is to ensure that every neurodiverse player and their families feel valued and understood, breaking down the barriers of stigma and misunderstanding. 

Gemma Machin, Equality Officer at Staffordshire FA said: “We are delighted to partner with the Football Mental Health Alliance on this essential training. Understanding neurodiversity is crucial for creating inclusivity at all levels of the game. By equipping the grassroots game with this knowledge, we are ensuring that neurodiverse players have the support they need to thrive on and off the pitch.” 

Danny Matharu, Founder of FHMA said: “Our mission is to provide the football community with the tools to understand and support neurodiverse players and their families. We believe that by making this training accessible to clubs nationwide, we are taking a significant step towards a more inclusive grassroots football culture.”  

Football clubs are urged to take advantage of this training to better understand neurodevelopmental conditions and proactively support both neurodiverse players and their families. The FMHA emphasises that a lack of understanding often leads to neurodiverse players and their families feeling ostracised or overwhelmed by the football experience. This course is a step towards bridging that gap, empowering clubs to make a lasting difference. 

Registration Details:  

Date: Wednesday 20th November 2024  

Time: 6:00 PM until 9:00pm (BST) 

Platform: Online via Zoom 

Price: £39.00 per person - Certificated 

Register here

For more information, contact: Danny Matharu at The Football Mental Health Alliance.  

03330 500 399 support@withinu.net