Today marks the start of the Mental Health Foundations' annual Mental Health Awareness Week (18th-24th May) 2020  where the theme for the week focusses on the power and potential of kindness.

On the topic of kindness and why it was picked as this years theme the Mental Health Foundation website says; "We have chosen kindness because of its singular ability to unlock our shared humanity. Kindness strengthens relationships, develops community and deepens solidarity. It is a cornerstone of our individual and collective mental health." 

To find out more about Kindness and Mental Health please visit the Mental Health Foundation website.

As a nation and as individuals it has perhaps never been more important to be aware of our Mental Health, especially in these uncertain times and so, across the week, we will be highlighted mental health charities and resources (including The FA 'Heads Up' and the NHS' Every Mind Matters campaigns) as well as bringing you a special 'Mental Health Mini-series' of our 'The Grassroots Football Coach' podcast which links up with our Talking Tactics programme to raise awareness of Mental Health through talking football. 

On Monday 18th May we focus on our past online Talking Tactics episodes with guest speakers from the world of local sport, including Jason McMahon from Berkshire Rugby, and current Slough Town midfielder Scott Davies, who talk to us about their experiences of Mental Health and the importance of talking about how you're feeling.

Then, everday from Tuesday - Friday, we'll be releasing a new episode of the podcast featuring more guests from the world of football and beyond who all discuss their journies with Mental Health.

Tuesday 19th May - Martin Sinclair
Wednesday 20th May - Manisha Tailor MBE
Thursday 21st May - Marvin Sordell
Friday 22nd May - Cara Ostryn

If you want to get involved with the Mental Health Foundation's campaign and join the nation in talking about kindness and mental health, you can follew them on social media and by following/sharing the hashtags #KindnessMatters #MentalHealthAwarenessWeek