Why do you want to raise mental health awareness in our industry?

Having just hit 45 years of service at Cambridge United FC, I understand the pressure that grounds staff go through and I think it’s important to look after your own mental health and that of your staff. When things are challenging, it’s important to talk about it and not lock it away. We should never suffer in silence. I was guilty of doing just that and things spiralled out of control following an accident when I developed depression and PTSD.

If you think someone is acting differently, ask them if they are OK, then ask again. From my experience it’s easy to brush off the first question, but the second time it’s asked you may be surprised by the answer and that could be the start of opening up. Personally, when I did ask for help at work, it wasn’t there at the time. Since then, things have changed massively at Cambridge United and the club now has an outstanding mental health support system. It offers regular wellbeing check-ins through Govox. Staff also have access to three therapy sessions through Mynurva, and this has been extended to Cambridge United season ticket holders. The club also has mental health ambassadors, of which I am one. We arrange wellbeing events in work time, giving people the confidence to ask for help or just talk about how they are feeling.

What challenges have you undertaken so far?

During the 2022 FIFA World Cup, I did a million-step challenge, and was then invited to walk the distance of London to Qatar [3,229 miles]. It was tough but I managed to raise £20,000 for Shout 85258. The publication of my book, Life’s a Pitch, raised the profile of mental health in the sector and since then I have had people literally turn up at the stadium asking for help, as waiting times for professional health can be lengthy. People just want to be listened to and acknowledged.

What's next?

My most recent challenge is walking 700 miles – the equivalent of London to Berlin – for Cambridgeshire, Peterborough and South Lincolnshire (CPSL) Mind. It’s about raising money for the charity and getting the message out that help is available. In addition, I am planning a conference with Cambridge United, where guest speakers will cover a number of topics related to mental health. CPSL Mind is supporting the event.

I HAVE HAD PEOPLE LITERALLY TURN UP AT THE STADIUM ASKING FOR HELP. PEOPLE JUST WANT TO BE LISTENED TO AND ACKNOWLEDGED

What advice would you give to people looking to help and support?

Please talk to someone. And seek help via the CPSL Mind website, which signposts to advice and supporting organisations. You can also call the CPSL Mind info line on 0300 303 4363 for support and assistance. Finally, if you are experiencing a mental health crisis, there are people who can help. Contact your GP or call the NHS 111 service and select the mental health option to speak to a mental health professional.

You can purchase Ian's book 'Life's A Pitch - A Groundsman's Tale' here.
You can still donate to Ian's CPSL Mind fundraiser here.