Football and Mental Health at the Heart of Minds United FC
Minds United FC is far more than just a football club; it’s a community dedicated to promoting mental health through sport, social interaction, and holistic support initiatives. Founded in July 2019 by Tarik Kaidi, the club emerged from his vision to create a space where mental health was the primary focus. After his own mental health journey, which included being sectioned in 2013, Tarik saw firsthand the transformative power of sport in fostering recovery, connection, and well-being.
Based in Earl’s Court, London, Minds United FC ‘s charitable arm Minds United Sports Club operates as a Community Interest Company (CIC), offering opportunities to individuals dealing with mental health challenges, including many survivors of the Grenfell Tower tragedy. With backing from organisations such as the Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea Council, CNWL NHS, Sported, National Lottery and City Bridge Foundation, the sports club has grown to weekly turn up and play community sports sessions. The football club include men’s and women’s mental health and disability teams, futsal, tennis and education initiatives, with over 200 members registered. Since adopting Spond in 2023, the club has streamlined its operations, enhanced communication, and strengthened its ability to track and support members effectively.
“I wanted to create something where mental health wasn’t an afterthought—it was the focus. Minds United is about much more than football; it’s about giving people a sense of purpose, community, and belonging,” says Tarik.
The Journey: A Vision of Mental Health Support Through Sport
Tarik’s journey with mental health inspired him to launch Minds United FC. After being involved in another organisation’s football programme, he realised there was a need for a dedicated club focused entirely on mental health. Tarik decided to take the initiative himself, establishing Minds United FC as a safe and inclusive space where football and mental health could intersect.
The impact of Minds United FC was immediate. The club quickly became a cornerstone of local mental health football leagues in Surrey and Middlesex. Players found solace, connection, and empowerment through the regular structure and camaraderie of football. On an international level, the club recently represented England in a tournament in Rome, for which it established a national mental health team.
Beyond football, Minds United FC has expanded its offerings to include employment support, training courses for referees and coaches, and educational programmes. These initiatives give members the chance to build confidence, develop new skills, and explore meaningful career opportunities.
Tarik says, “Football gave me so much when I was at my lowest. It wasn’t just about fitness; it was about connecting with people, feeling safe, and rediscovering a sense of joy. I wanted to share that with others.”
Harnessing Spond: Improving Efficiency and Engagement
In 2023, Minds United FC began using Spond to better manage its growing membership and extensive projects. With over 200 registered members and 100 regular participants, Spond has transformed how the club organises its matches, training sessions, socials, and other activities.
Spond’s ability to track attendance, manage team events, and analyse data has enabled the club to tailor its activities to meet the needs of its diverse membership. Minds United FC uses Spond to manage men’s and women’s teams, futsal programmes, mental health and disability groups, and tournaments. Group codes featured on the club’s website make it easy for new members to join, fostering inclusivity and accessibility.
“Spond has made a massive difference to how we operate,” Tarik explains. “It helps us keep everything organised—from managing teams and events to tracking attendance and analysing data. It means we can focus on what matters most: supporting our members.”
Securing the Future: Financial and Organisational Growth
The club’s mission has been bolstered by £360,000 in funding secured for the next three years. Support from organisations like the National Lottery and City Bridge Trust ensures the sustainability of Minds United FC’s programmes, enabling it to reach even more individuals who can benefit from its services.
By incorporating tools like Spond, the club has also streamlined its operations, allowing it to focus on its primary goal: using football to support mental health. Plans to broaden its offerings to include additional sports and initiatives highlight Minds United FC’s commitment to growth and innovation.
A Beacon for Football and Mental Health Advocacy
Minds United FC stands as a shining example of how football can be a force for good. Under the guidance of founder and president Tarik, the club has grown into a vital community resource that blends sport with education, employment opportunities, and mental health advocacy.
“We’re like an adult version of a youth club,” Tarik says. “Our members aren’t just here for football; they’re here for the friendships, the support, and the opportunities we offer off the pitch. Our goal is to keep growing and reaching more people. With the right tools and support, there’s no limit to what we can achieve.”
With Spond playing a central role in managing its activities and the backing of significant funding, Minds United FC continues to change lives, providing a safe, supportive environment for individuals experiencing mental health challenges. For anyone looking to understand the connection between football and mental health, Minds United FC is proof of what’s possible when sport is used as a tool for empowerment and healing.
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