Supporters group nets funding boost

A mental health support initiative is continuing after a football supporters’ group secured significant sponsorship.

T h e Su n d e rl a n d A FC Bra n c h L i a i s o n C ou n c i l (BLC), who represent 41 official supporters’ branches of Sunderland AFC, have welcomed Stewart Donald and Bridle Vehicle Leasing as sponsors of the BLC Mental Health Hub.

TheBLCMental HealthHub–apartnership between the BLC, Washington Mind and the Foundation of Light – offers professional support for Sunderland supporters to address mental health issues.

The BLC, which has lost a number of their members to suicide, had relied on the generosity of members and supporters in order to meet running costs.

The sponsorship and the funds involved will secure the future of the BLC Mental

Health Hub for at least the next three years and provide the opportunity for it to be expanded into other areas that require urgent support.

Jim Gilling, Chair of the BLC, said: “We are delighted to welcome Stewart Donald and Bridle Vehicle Leasing as sponsors.

"The support that this investment provides, means that the BLC Mental Health Hub secures its future for the years ahead and allows for the further expansion of the services that we can offer to our supporters and the wider football community.”

Stewart Donald, owner of Sunderland AFC, said: “To be able to support the BLC Mental Health Hub and such worthwhile endeavours that can really make a difference is something that I am completely on board with.”

For further information visit www.safcblc.com