Sheffield Wednesday is set to launch an initiative bringing hope to veterans with service-related mental ill-health.
Joining Forces provides treatment to ex-servicemen and women with post-traumatic stress disorder and associated difficulties including hyper-vigilance, sleep disorders and anxiety.
The scheme, for veterans from Sheffield and the surrounding area, will be hosted by the SWFC Community Programme after funding was secured from the Big Lottery Fund.
An occupational therapist and support worker from the Joining Forces team will carry out a mix of activities from graffiti art and photography to multisport and football skills session with participants.
The activities are designed to boost team work and communication skills, increase confidence, rekindle interest in hobbies and bring a sense of self-worth back into people’s lives.
Occupational therapist Karen Johnson said: “Occupational therapy enables people to take part in purposeful and practical activity which is central to everyday life.
“We will support veterans to adjust to their ‘new world’, helping them to rediscover skills, break tasks down into simple steps, set achievable goals by building on individual’s strengths and interests and adopt coping strategies to promote mental wellbeing.”
The club’s CSR Development Manager Spencer Taylor, added: “Sheffield Wednesday are delighted to be working with Combat Stress on the Joining Forces initiative.
“We hope these sessions will help provide ex-servicemen with the tools they need to tackle post-traumatic stress disorder and reintegrate fully into post military life.”
To find out more or to book your place on the Joining Forces course please email community@swfc.co.uk or call: 0114 324 0775.