Earlier this year, Fulham FC Foundation and Hammersmith & Fulham Council launched a new More Than A Game football session, supporting the mental wellbeing of refugees and asylum seekers within our community.
The programme aims to support adults from 18 years old across South West London, helping their physical and mental wellbeing, and combatting social isolation for vulnerable people.
Working in collaboration with Hammersmith and Fulham Council, the Foundation identified a group of young people who have an appetite to play football and a willingness to engage in the More Than a Game programme.
Those who have taken part so far in our weekly sessions held at Eel Brook Common in Fulham come from countries across North and East Africa, and South America.
Mohammed, a participant, said: "I enjoy coming and playing football with Fulham FC Foundation. We always look forward to the sessions and it gives us a chance to play sport and get together to have some fun. Introducing ourselves and talking to each other on the pitch comes easily, and this is a good opportunity for us to do it."
Ben McIlwaine, Mental Wellbeing Practitioner at Fulham FC Foundation, said: "We are really pleased to give this opportunity for young people not only to play football, but also engage in our Mental Wellbeing programme. This is a vulnerable and isolated group, so being able to engage in this way will hopefully improve the lives of the participants. Working alongside the Refugee Liaison team at Hammersmith & Fulham Council has enabled us to engage with a high number of participants since beginning the session. It is great to see the potential of what this collaboration could bring."
Guillermo Grillo, Refugee Liaison Officer at Hammersmith & Fulham Council, said: "Practicing football offers numerous benefits for asylum seekers in their journey towards integration into society. Firstly, football serves as a universal language that transcends cultural and linguistic barriers, providing asylum seekers with a common ground to connect with locals and fellow migrants. This fosters a sense of community and belonging, which is crucial for emotional and psychological well-being.
"Additionally, participation in football can enhance physical health, reduce stress, and boost confidence. The teamwork and collaboration inherent in the sport help develop essential social skills such as communication, cooperation, and conflict resolution. These skills are transferable to everyday interactions, facilitating smoother integration into the social fabric of their new environment.
"Moreover, football can provide a structured and positive routine, offering a sense of normalcy and stability amidst the uncertainties of asylum-seeking processes. The way that Fulham FC Foundation has engaged with this community and the way that it supports them is an amazing stepping stone for a better future."
