Lancashire Mind has joined forces with Blackpool and Morecambe football clubs to support a fun-filled soccer challenge to raise funds and awareness of mental health.
The English Football League and National Mind began working together several years ago to improve the way that football, sport, and society as a whole, approached mental health.
The partnership sought to raise awareness of mental health, to improve the approach to mental health in football, and to raise funds to deliver life-changing support.
As part of the partnership, Lancashire Mind is teaming up with Blackpool and Morecambe for the #545Challenge.
The challenge involves people filming themselves doing five keepy uppies, share on social media tagging Lancashire Mind, nominate five friends, and donate £5. Players and staff from Blackpool and Morecambe will encourage people to take up the challenge.
With one in four individuals affected by mental health problems, the EFL will work with its network of 72 clubs and community trusts to promote Mind’s message and services to millions nationwide.
Tommy McIlravey, chief executive at Lancashire Mind, said: “We are trying to lead a revolution in terms of mental health and wellbeing, but we can’t do it on our own. That’s why it’s great to partner up with organisations like the EFL.”
Emma Bateson, fundraising lead at Lancashire Mind, said: “The challenge is a bit of fun, but with a serious message. We know football fans are a tight-knit bunch who look out for one another.
“We want to send the message that we need to start conversations about mental health and wellbeing to help ourselves and each other, and sport is often a great way to break down those barriers and stigmas.”
All the money raised will be used in Lancashire to support people living in Lancashire through support and projects available to people of all ages.
You have until April 28 to take part in the challenge. For more information and to donate go to http://bit.ly/545challenge


Friends from Morecambe to take on Ultra Marathon for brave toddler
Firefighters and swim centre team give key water safety message on Morecambe school visit
Police probe after stolen motorbike being ridden dangerously found in Morecambe
Man arrested in Lancaster after bridge jump hoax call
Local hospice wins national award for Will donation campaign
Cash boost for babies and families at Royal Lancaster Infirmary after fundraising at local golf club
Morecambe’s Pride in Place Board give update on West End investment programme
Children's play area in Lancaster opens after £118k revamp
Illegal tobacco and counterfeit clothing seized during raid on Lancaster city centre shop
Lancaster bowling green fundraiser hits target
Six food businesses in Lancaster district fail allergen tests
LISTEN: Stars of Morecambe and Wise stage show can't wait for Eric's 100th birthday
LISTEN: Thousands enjoy Wray Fair finale to annual scarecrow festival
PHOTOS and VIDEO: Incredible sand art on Morecambe beach honours Sir David Attenborough
Row over Morecambe FC debt as ex-directors' firm issues winding-up petition against club
Morecambe Pride handed £3,500 grant boost
North West awards delight for talented stars of Lancaster musicals
Music festival set for Lancaster over Bank Holiday postponed due to ‘ongoing planning’
Lancashire Police Museum in Lancaster celebrates fourth anniversary
Police investigate alleged sexual exploitation at Lancaster flat

