Portsmouth FC and Local Mind Charities Unite to Offer Support for Fans
Portsmouth FC and Local Mind Charities Unite to Offer Support for Fans
Following the tragic passing of a devoted Pompey fan at Fratton Park on Saturday, 18 January, a collaborative support initiative has been launched by Havant and East Hants Mind (HEH Mind), Solent Mind, Portsmouth FC, and the national Mind charity. This initiative aims to provide emotional and mental health support to fans and the wider community affected by this event.
Matchday Wellbeing Support at Fratton Park
To offer accessible support, Peer Practitioners from HEH Mind and Solent Mind will be present in the Fan Zone before selected home fixtures at Fratton Park. They will be moving freely through the area, offering fans the opportunity to discuss mental health, seek guidance, and access local support services.
Upcoming Wellbeing Fan Zone Conversation Opportunities:
- Saturday, 22 February (1–3pm | KO 3pm vs QPR)
- Sunday, 9 March (10am–12pm | KO 12pm vs Leeds)
- Wednesday, 12 March (5:45–7:45pm | KO 7:45pm vs Plymouth)
- Saturday, 29 March (1–3pm | KO 3pm vs Blackburn)
- Saturday, 12 April (1–3pm | KO 3pm vs Derby)
Post-Match Peer Support Drop-In Sessions
For fans needing wanting additional support in a more private setting, dedicated post-match drop-in sessions will be available at Positive Minds, Portsmouth on select Thursdays following matchdays.
Location: Positive Minds, 36-38 Arundel St, Portsmouth PO1 1NL
Drop-in Session Dates:
- Thursday, 27 February, 2.30pm to 4.30pm
- Thursday, 13 March, 2.30pm to 4.30pm
- Thursday, 3 April, 2.30pm to 4.30pm
- Thursday, 17 April, 2.30pm to 4.30pm
These confidential sessions will allow fans to have one-on-one conversations with trained practitioners in a safe and supportive space, away from the matchday crowds.
Crisis and Ongoing Mental Health Support
For anyone in immediate need of crisis support, the initiative also highlights the availability of Safe Haven services across the region:
Daytime Wellbeing & Peer Support Services
- Positive Minds, Portsmouth (Mon–Thu 10:30am–4:30pm, Fri 10:30am–4pm) | 📞 023 9282 4795 solentmind.org.uk
- Wellbeing & Peer Support, Havant (Mon–Fri 9am–4pm) | 📞 02392 498916 | easthantsmind.org
- Togetherall (Online Support) – Available 24/7 with wellbeing tools, courses, and resources (assessment required via local Minds)
Evening & Crisis Support
- Adult’s Safe Haven, Havant (Open daily, 6pm–10pm) | 📞 0300 303 1560
- Adult’s Safe Haven, Eastleigh (Open daily, 5pm–11pm) | 📞 0344 264 5310
- Young People’s Safe Haven, Havant (Tue/Wed 5pm–8pm, Thu 5pm–7pm) | 📞 0300 303 1580
Quotes from Local Minds
Wendy Lee, Head of Services for Portsmouth and Southampton at Solent Mind, shared:
“We were deeply saddened to hear of the tragic loss of a Portsmouth fan at Fratton Park. Events like this can have a significant emotional impact, and it is important that fans and team members have access to support during this difficult time. We are grateful for the opportunity to work alongside our colleagues at Havant and East Hampshire Mind to provide these essential services.”
Helen Mothersole, Director of Service Development at HEH Mind, added:
“Our thoughts are with Alec’s family, friends, and fellow supporters. We understand that this loss may be difficult for many, whether they knew Alec personally or not. Through this collaboration, we hope to create opportunities for fans to seek support, start conversations, and connect with services that may help. We are proud to work with Solent Mind, Portsmouth FC, and the national Mind charity to provide these wellbeing resources.”
Supporting the Pompey Community
This initiative will lead into Mental Health Awareness Week (12–18 May 2025), an annual campaign encouraging open conversations about mental health. While awareness campaigns are a great starting point, help is available now – fans are encouraged to reach out to family, friends, or one of the trained professionals at Safe Havens, Positive Minds in Portsmouth, or through their GP.
Portsmouth FC and its local Mind partners remain committed to supporting the football community.
Posted on: 21st February 2025
