West Ham United Foundation & Head In The Game Join Forces To Tackle The Cost of Living Crisis In Newham

13th June 2023

In an exciting development for the local community, the West Ham United Foundation and HITG have announced a ground-breaking partnership aimed at supporting individuals who are facing challenges with the rising cost of living in the UK.

The collaboration, titled ‘Best Of Living’ will incorporate a unique football and mental health programme to uplift and empower the residents of Newham.

As one of London’s most diverse boroughs, Newham is home to a vibrant community that faces economic pressures and limited resources. With the cost of living skyrocketing, many individuals find it increasingly difficult to meet their basic needs and maintain their mental well-being. In response to this pressing issue, the West Ham United Foundation and Head In The Game have come together to address these concerns and make a lasting impact.

The ‘Best Of Living’ program is set to kick off in September 2023, offering a holistic approach to support both physical and mental health. Recognising the powerful role that football plays in bringing people together, the program will combine the universal appeal of the sport with the essential tools to improve mental well-being. These sessions will provide a safe space for participants to engage in physical activity, build connections, and develop money saving skills.

With a strong focus on mental health, ‘Best Of Living’ aims to break the stigma surrounding mental well-being and equip individuals with coping mechanisms for daily challenges around budgeting, remaining social on a budget and smart shopping. The program will provide access to HITG’s coaching network who will facilitate open discussions and offer guidance on managing stress, anxiety, and other mental health concerns. By promoting open dialogue and fostering a supportive community, ‘Best Of Living’ seeks to empower participants to overcome obstacles and thrive in their daily lives.

The West Ham United Foundation and Head in the Game are dedicated to delivering sustainable and impactful solutions to the residents of Newham. Through the ‘Best Of Living’ program, they aim to empower individuals to reach their full potential, regardless of their financial circumstances. By bridging the gap between football and mental health, this collaboration is set to make a significant difference in the lives of those who need it most.

Matt Witts, COO of Head In The Game, expressed his excitement about the collaboration, saying, “We are proud to join forces with the West Ham United Foundation to deliver the ‘Best Of Living’ program in Newham. By using football as a vehicle for change, we aim to empower individuals to lead healthier, happier lives. Together, we can make a difference and ensure that everyone in Newham has access to the resources they need to thrive.”

As the September 2023 start date approaches, anticipation is building among the residents of Newham. The ‘Best Of Living’ program promises to provide a beacon of hope for those struggling with the cost of living crisis, offering a holistic approach that combines the love of football with mental well-being support. This partnership between the West Ham United Foundation and Head in the Game signifies a positive step forward in addressing the challenges faced by the community, empowering individuals to overcome adversity and embrace a brighter future.

More information about the West Ham United Foundation can be found here.