Talking is the Best Tactic

We are proud to support the Premier League’s Together Against Suicide initiative.

Brentford FC continues to take part in the Premier League's suicide prevention programme, helping to provide support for fans experiencing suicidal thoughts and raising awareness of the role that simple actions, such as starting a conversation, can play in preventing suicide.

Football brings people together, and our campaign, Talking is the Best Tactic, highlights the importance of conversation and encourages our community to take the time to talk to one another.

Through this initiative, the club and Brentford FC Community Sports Trust seek to reduce stigma around mental health, prevent suicide and create more opportunities for meaningful conversations. This includes providing fans and the wider community with opportunities to hear from experts at monthly events, as well as encouraging people to check in with one another and start conversations.

Sadly, suicide is an issue that affects people of all ages and backgrounds. Statistics show that someone in the UK dies by suicide every 90 minutes, and one in four people have experienced suicidal thoughts.

If you need urgent support

- Call 999 – if you are in immediate danger.

- Call 111 (option 2) – for NHS urgent mental health support.

- Call Samaritans on 116 123 – free, available 24/7.

Local support:

- West London Mental Health Single Point of Access – speak to a trained advisor, available 24/7 on 0800 328 4444.

- HFEH Mind Safe Space – Hounslow Help Line: open 11am–11pm, everyday. Call 020 3475 5185 for urgent mental health support.

See all crisis contacts

About the Campaign

Brentford FC consultant psychologist Michael Caulfield recognises the importance of creating safe spaces to talk and installed benches at the Robert Rowan Performance Centre to create a place for conversations with players, coaches and staff. The benches in our training ground have had a significant impact on our players who have used them as a space to pause and have meaningful conversations with Michael.

The club is working in partnership with the London Borough of Hounslow to install a number of special benches in the local area, providing fans and the community with more places to sit and talk.

Local services and support (BFCCST)

The Trust currently supports the local community through the delivery of BeeActive:Football sessions. Delivered by experienced football and talking therapy coaches, these free weekly sessions provide participants with an opportunity to connect, have fun whilst working on their physical and mental fitness.

The Trust also run regular Comedy for Thought courses, giving participants a chance to learn stand-up comedy techniques whilst harnessing the power of laughter to support wellbeing.

Brentford FC Community Sports Trust will also host monthly ‘In Conversation With’ events, bringing together mental health experts, community members and public figures.

Incorporate the “Starting 11” concept:
- Display the scale visually (graphic).
- Text underneath: “Use this scale to check in with yourself and others. Talking about how you feel can help you move up the pitch.”
- CTA: Download conversation guide (toolkit PDF if available).

Be Part of the Team

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Opportunity to share stories, volunteer, etc.

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If you need local support

West London Mental Health Single Point of Access – speak to a trained advisor, available 24/7 on 0800 328 4444.

Hounslow Safe Space - The Bridgelink Cente, 373 Summerwood Road, Isleworth, TW7 7QR. Open 365 days a year, Monday-Sunday (2pm-10pm). Phone: 02038692793. Visit their website here.

Ealing Safe Space - Safe Space Ealing, Wolsey Wing, St Bernard's Hospital, London UB1 3EU. Open 365 days a year, Monday-Sunday (2pm-10pm). Phone: 02038692791. Visit their website here.

See all crisis contacts

Local services and support (BFCCST)

Brentford FC Community Sports Trust continues to provide free opportunities for people to connect and talk through initiatives including:

Singing for Thought: A welcoming seven-week programme designed to boost mood, build confidence and bring people together through music - sign up here.

Walking for Wellbeing: A friendly community walking group designed to help people get outside, connect with others and improve their wellbeing every Friday - sign up here.

Find the full range of Trust sessions

Brentford x Mentality Clothing

Last season, the club worked with Mentality Clothing to release a new range including hoodies and t-shirts in multiple colours, all featuring a bespoke illustrated design with the message: “Remember, Bee kind to your mind.”

The aim of the collaboration is to share the message that positive conversations around mental health can help reduce stigma and help people feel more connected and supported. 25% of proceeds from all sales go towards the Trust's mental health programmes.

Buy from the range now