Tackling depression and obesity with MK Dons

Tackling depression and obesity with MK Dons image

Home » Tackling depression and obesity with MK Dons

An innovative new scheme to help young people to tackle obesity, depression and social isolation has been launched in Milton Keynes.

The innovative partnership between MK Dons Sport and Education Trust (SET), and NHS Bedfordshire, Luton and Milton Keynes Integrated Care Board and Milton Keynes Council brings together coaches, mentors and mental health professionals to help young people learn new skills, develop confidence and transform their lives, so they can live healthier lives.

The programme offers young people a safe place to talk about their thoughts, feelings and mental health self-management techniques, while playing and developing their football skills.

Kelly Day, Inclusion Manager, MK Dons Sport Education Trust, said:

“We are very proud to support this scheme. Many young people experience everyday battles that we often can’t see. Through the power of football, we’re helping young people from all backgrounds in Milton Keynes to break down barriers, get active and take steps to helping to manage their own mental health. It’s a scheme that’s never been more important and we’re proud to be breaking down barriers with the young people who enlist on our course.”

J’s experience

“J” is a refugee from Afghanistan and lives in Milton Keynes. He has struggled with his mental health for some time and decided to attend the programme after MK Dons SET contacted his community following a request for mental health and wellbeing support in the refugee community by local GPs.

J attended the first session, bringing along a few friends from his community. They did not have the correct footwear so were given football boots to ensure they were able to take part. He provided a vital role throughout the sessions, translating the conversation for his friends so they were able to understand the instructions from the coaches and to enjoy the full experience of a training session including coaching drills and a match.

The sessions enabled J to play football regularly, significantly improving his fitness so that he can complete a full session without being exhausted. He has also seen an improvement in his confidence to go out more, grow his friendship groups and make better choices with his diet.

J said:

“Since being in England, I have found it hard to be happy. MK Dons SET have helped me with this by letting me play football and helping me with the football boots. I recommend this to anyone. It does help and I have now found some more friends.”

This scheme is open to people who live in Milton Keynes and you can self-refer by registering at your first session. Details of the sessions can be found here – Football Over Mind (mkdonsset.com)

View all news

Latest news and highlights

News

17 April 2025

Get the care you need this Easter: advice on NHS opening times…

Many families will be looking forward to spending the Easter holiday together, but NHS staff will also enjoy the chance to take a long weekend…

News

17 April 2025

The importance of mental wellbeing – Stress Awareness Month

Bedfordshire, Luton and Milton Keynes Integrated Care System is marking Stress Awareness Month by encouraging people to prioritise their mental wellbeing and seek support to…

News

16 April 2025

More appointments are available for patients at local general practices

General practices in Bedfordshire, Luton and Milton Keynes are offering more appointments than a year ago, according to new figures released by NHS England. The data – covering December 2024…

News

14 April 2025

Patients urged to order repeat prescriptions before holiday weekends

People who take regular medications have been urged to check they have sufficient supplies to last the long Easter weekend (Good Friday, 18 April to Easter Monday, 21 April) and…

News

9 April 2025

ICB welcomes prospect of better health through boosts to local economy

Health chiefs have expressed their delight at the prospect of better health for local people, following two major economic announcements in recent days. An artist’s impression of the proposed development…

News

8 April 2025

Breaking down barriers: Breast screening awareness event empowers neurodiverse adults

Autistic adults and those with learning disabilities were invited to attend an event to learn more about breast screening and the importance of early diagnosis of breast cancer. An X-ray…