Kent County Council Partners with Football Clubs for Health Awareness

A county council has initiated a collaboration with three local football clubs to enhance public awareness regarding available free support for smoking cessation and mental well-being. Specifically, Kent County Council (KCC) has formed a partnership with Dartford, Folkestone Invicta, and Dover Athletic football clubs. This initiative aims to assist supporters seeking to quit smoking or those requiring mental health assistance. Promotional materials, including pitch-side banners and posters, are being displayed, and these advertisements are also featured in match day programmes. KCC councillor Dan Watkins stated: “The clubs are at the heart of their communities and able to help us encourage residents to kick the habit, or reach out for support when life feels tough”. KCC reported a continued decline in the overall number of smokers, with approximately one in 10 Kent residents currently smoking, a figure slightly below the national average. Nevertheless, the council also noted an increase in smoking rates in certain areas of the county, specifically mentioning Folkestone and Hythe, Dover, and Gravesham. A spokesperson for Dartford FC expressed the club’s pride in participating in this initiative and confirmed the placement of pitch-side banners to demonstrate its commitment. The spokesperson added: “No one should think they need to face these challenges alone.”