Jack Ross and The Lads back mental health campaign

Sunderland AFC’s manager Jack Ross and first team have pledged their support to a campaign which aims to tackle mental health in the North East. The club and its official charity, Foundation of Light, recently announced the ‘Give a Quid’ campaign to raise £30,000 to support the Foundation's work across the region to improve people's mental health through its award-winning programmes in sport, health, education and employability. The vital League One match against Doncaster Rovers at the Stadium of Light on the 19th April will be dedicated to the Foundation, with a number of activities taking place in the stadium before the match and at half time. Black Cats manager Ross is urging supporters to get behind the cause and 'Give a Quid' saying: “I’m very proud to support Foundation of Light’s Give a Quid campaign and its mission to improve mental health in North East communities.

There is often a stigma around mental health issues. We should all talk about it more, so if either ourselves or one of our friends or family should suffer with their mental health, we’re better equipped to help and get through it together.

Lesley Spuhler OBE, Foundation of Light Chief Executive added: “We’re very grateful for the support of Jack, the players and all at Sunderland AFC for getting behind this campaign and helping us do more to improve mental health in the North East.” HOW TO GET INVOLVED: There are lots of ways to get involved. A downloadable fundraising pack is available on the Foundation of Light website for businesses or supporters’ groups who would like to get involved in the days leading up to the game. Businesses who support the campaign can also receive visits from Sunderland AFC mascots Samson and Delilah, and Foundation of Light social media team. Stuck for ideas? Why not organise a red and white day at work? Or get out of the office at lunch time and enjoy a “wellbeing walk”? Or maybe get together to chat over lunch with friends and colleagues? Donations can be made in person at the Beacon of Light, text FOLQUID to 70085 or donate online via www.foundationoflight.co.uk. If you are a business and would like to get involved, contact clare.wilson@foundationoflight.co.uk or call Clare on 0191 563 4777 to find out more.