New scheme to build on game-changing work

01 February 2022
New scheme to build on game-changing work
Foundation of Light’s new Game of II Halves scheme will see Sunderland AFC’s official charity continue to support communities across the North East through a dedicated mental health and wellbeing programme.   Game of II Halves builds on the very successful Be a Game Changer campaign, which delivered 1,500 hours of workshops and sessions to raise awareness around mental health issues and suicide prevention.   With funding from NENC Suicide Prevention Network, the aim is to recruit ambassadors to share messages throughout workplaces and local organisations across the region to promote good mental health and suicide prevention messages.   The title Game of II Halves, is a nod to the Foundation’s link with Sunderland AFC; with the first being a football match having two halves and how things can change so quickly; and the second reflecting the use of the Roman numeral II, resembling the logo of the pause button, as a reminder to people to pause and look after themselves.   Delivered in Sunderland, South Tyneside and Northumberland, the scheme will target men aged 25-69 and women aged 41-50, the groups with the highest suicide rate in the North East.   Between now and December 2023, Game of II Halves aims to: 
  • Recruit 250 ambassadors from workplaces, grassroots football clubs and SAFC fans groups  
  • Encourage ambassadors to share messages and tactics to support their colleagues, teammates, friends, family and fellow fans to promote good mental health and suicide prevention messages   
  • Deliver monthly ambassador workshops and the opportunity to undertake a formal mental health qualification   
  • Provide ambassadors with kit and resources to make them identifiable in promoting our programme (eg. hoody or scarf)
For more information on the programme, stay tuned to www.foundationoflight.co.uk and join the conversation on social media by using #SuicidePrevention and #SuicideSaferCommunities 
From Wearside to London: Foundation of Light Gala shines bright

From Wearside to London: Foundation of Light Gala shines bright

11 October 2025

The Beacon of Light sparkled as the Foundation of Light’s annual Gala Awards Dinner brought together inspirational stories, top-class entertainment, and Black Cats legends in a night that truly showcased the power of football to change lives.


Show more