Men’s mental wellbeing football club in Mansfield launch walk and talk sessions
A Mansfield football team set up to improve mental wellbeing amongst players has launched a new regular walk and talk session.
Mansfield Mind FC was set up in January 2026 with the aim of building a community around football and mental wellbeing and now has 150 members.
Dominic Helley one of the founding members from Mansfield Mind FC said: “The Walk & Talk sessions are something we’ve only just started introducing. We’ve had a couple so far and they’ve been really positive. It came from wanting to offer something a bit different, whether that’s for lads who don’t want to play or just want a break from football during the week.
“From the couple of walks we’ve done so far, it’s been good to see how much people have got from it. Being out walking seems to take the pressure off a bit and conversations just happen more naturally.”
One man who took part in a walking session said: “It’s a nice change from football, a bit more relaxed and you end up having a proper chat.”
Another said: “I wasn’t sure at first but I’ve actually really enjoyed it, it helps clear your head.”
Dominic added: “It’s still early days with it, but it’s something we’re looking to keep building alongside the football.”
The group run friendly kickabouts on Wednesdays and Fridays at Jo Whit in Mansfield in the evenings, along with 11-a-side games on Sundays.
Alongside the football, the group also organise social events and other activities to give people a chance to switch off, spend time with others and talk if they want to.
Dominic said: “At the moment, we’re aiming to run the walks on Monday evenings, but it’s organised week by week depending on numbers. The best way for people to get involved is to contact us via socials and we can send them the link to join the community, as that’s where we post updates and confirm details.
"On this WhatsApp community, we have different groups people can join, and we also have a bespoke app which acts as a hub for everything Mansfield Mind. Members can sign up for sessions, see what’s going on, gain achievement badges for doing particular activities, and access links to mental health support, which is something we’re really proud of.”