Football Initiative Offers Support for Addiction

A new football-based group has been established to assist individuals grappling with addiction and mental health issues. Charlie Barker, 32, initiated the Addicted to Football group in Cambridge, having navigated his own struggles with addiction. Mr. Barker, who has been sober for four years, expressed his desire to create a space where people facing addiction could find support while also enjoying themselves. “It’s a case of come for the football, stay for the chat,” he said. Mr. Barker indicated that he perceived a necessity for developing a supportive environment distinct from a clinical, indoor setting. He said: “I struggled myself, previously, with mental health and addiction issues.” “I’ve overcome them luckily enough and there was a really hard struggle, a point where I never thought I’d be able to come out of it.” “I think [something like this] it would have helped me majorly when I was struggling.” Mr. Barker stated that the group serves as a place for people to attend without judgment; the sole regulations are that no drugs or alcohol may be brought to the complimentary, weekly sessions. He added: “Some people played football growing up, they left at 14 or 15 and went into addiction or life doesn’t go great for them, and that’s all they know.” “Until they have a kick-about again or meet new people battling the same battle and realise it’s not all about that. It’s about meeting new people and having fun.” “It’s such a good warm feeling to see people benefit from what we’re doing.” For updates on Cambridgeshire news, follow BBC Sounds, Facebook, Instagram, and X. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC is not responsible for the content of external sites. Information regarding our approach to external linking is available.