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You can have all the people in the world around you, all the services in the world around you, but if you don’t do something, nothing will change.

Those powerful words from former Premier League footballer and mental health advocate Clarke Carlisle set the tone, as Oxleas colleagues and service users came together to celebrate the extension of a pioneering partnership with Charlton Athletic Community Trust (CACT), at a special event at The O2.

And what better way to mark the occasion than by heading up to the roof. Colleagues from Early Intervention in Psychosis, CAMHS and physical health services, including those from the Joint Emergency Team (JET), joined CACT participants to take on the Up at The O2 climb, with plenty of smiles, encouragement and a few wobbly moments along the way. It was a great chance to share the experience with people who have directly benefited from the programme.

Clarke Carlisle, now Chair of Mind, had earlier featured on BBC Radio London, talking about the power of community support and football to improve mental health.

Listen to his BBC Radio interview here.

The event marked the extension of a long-standing partnership between Oxleas and CACT, with additional long-term funding helping to secure and grow a programme that is already making a big difference locally. The partnership is thought to be unique, bringing together an NHS trust and a professional football club’s charity to deliver joined-up mental health support.

Programmes involving adult mental and physical health patients, CAMHS projects and community activities will continue to offer people opportunities to get active, connect with others and build confidence in a supportive environment.

After the climb, everyone came together for a relaunch event, enjoying an interactive football session, bringing everyone together in a relaxed and fun way, before partners reflected on what’s been achieved so far and shared ideas for what comes next. There was a real sense of pride in how far the partnership has come and plenty of ambition for the future.

One of the most powerful moments of the day came from Azmeena Azim, who shared her personal story. She spoke about her recovery journey and how being part of CACT activities helped her grow in confidence, reconnect with others and move forward with her life. Her experience was a reminder of just how much impact programmes like this can have.

 

This short film captured the highlights of the day, featuring Azmeena alongside voices from across the partnership, including the aforementioned Clarke Carlisle, CACT Ambassador Steve Sutherland OBE, Debbie Cook from the English Football League and Oxleas Chief Operating Officer Iain Dimond, all reflecting on the difference the partnership is making.

Looking ahead, the focus is simple, to keep building on what works and help even more people benefit from this joined-up approach, bringing together care, connection and the power of community.