It’s game on for this year’s charity match
No Substitute for Life tournament kicks off on Sunday
Sport is being used to raise serious issues surrounding mental health awareness – with a football tournament due to kick off in Paisley.
The beautiful game is being used to raise awareness and also remember those who have lost their lives to suicide.
The annual No Substitute for Life competition, held in Ferguslie and now in its sixth year, brings the community together to shine a light on the issue of the suicide, especially among young people.
Hundreds of footballers and supporters have turned out each year and similar numbers are expected again when the competition takes place on Sunday
Kick off is at noon in Ferguslie Park Sports Cent re and everyone going along can place a heart on the memorial tree in remembrance of those they have lost.
A commemorative balloon release will also take place and there will be face painting, fun activities and refreshments to keep everyone entertained as the players take to the field.
The event was first created by Ferguslie resident Paul Cardona, who has lost a number of friends over the years to suicide.
Paul wants to make people aware of issues surrounding mental health issues, encourage people to speak to their loved ones and know that it is OK to ask for help.
The tournament is organised by community volunteers in partnership with Choose Life, Recovery Across Mental Health (RAMH) and Survival of Bereavement by Suicide (SOBS).
A working group was created to bring the event to life and the success of the event led to the group winning Renfrewshire’s Chamber of Commerce Community Champion Award in 2013.
Provost Lorraine Cameron said: “Mental health is an increasingly prevalent issue in today’s society and it is important that those who are dealing with these issues are aware that the support is there for them to access.
“The tournament is now into its sixth year and the response remains tremendous from the Ferguslie, and wider, community and it is important that we continue to provide the support to those who need it.
“Events such as this tournament are great ways of breaking down the barriers which are often faced, by young people especially, in discussing their feelings and I would encourage anyone who feels like this could benefit them to go along.”
The event provides an opportunity for those who have lost a loved one to suicide to remember them and also meet others who have faced similar heartbreak.
The SOBS support group meets on the last Wednesday of every month at The Wynd Centre, Paisley, from 7pm to 8.30pm, and anyone affected by suicide is welcome to go along.
The national helpline Breathing Space can be reached on 0800 83 85 87, and the number for The Samaritans is 116 123.
Recovery Across Mental Health (RAMH) First Crisis can be contacted on 0141 848 9090.
For more information on suicide prevention, call 0141 849 2200, or email rosemary.mullan@ renfrewshire.gov.uk