The Canaries Trust’s Mental Health team largely owes its existence to the pioneering work of former Board member, Kris Gunns. Kris is a sufferer of borderline personality disorder, and his passionate championing of the mental health cause saw the Trust offering signposting services to those in need. The Trust works closely with mental health charities and the Club’s own Safeguarding Team, as well as the Football Supporters Association (FSA).

 

The main purpose of the team is to raise Mental Health awareness and to signpost to professional services.

 

Kris has since left the Board, but his work continues with the setting up of a specific Canaries Trust Mental Health email address and social media account which are continually monitored. The Mental Health team includes: Nick O’Brien - who has a background in education, equalities work and safeguarding - and David Whiteside - a mental health survivor, campaigner and advocate.

 

In 2021, the Canaries Trust held a highly successful Mental Health Forum which involved Norwich City Football Club staff, FSA representatives and healthcare professionals.

 

Since that Forum, the team have created a series of Mental Health Minis – videos with Norwich City employees, ex-players, media and fansIf you would like to contact the team, email mh@canariestrust.org or via X @canariestrustMH