A SCHEME designed to encourage young men to open up and enjoy a game of football kicks off on Sunday.

The Haddy Huddle has been set up in a bid to tackle mental health issues and tragic incidents of suicide locally.

The initiative, which is a partnership between Haddington Athletic Football Club, the town’s Bridge Centre, East Lothian Council and Haddington and Lammermuir Area Partnership, aims to bring young men together at Haddington’s 3G pitch for a friendly kickabout before a cuppa and a chat.

Colin Bowsher, chairman of the youth section of the club, has been involved in the creation of the initiative.

He said: “It was really a discussion between myself at Haddington Athletic and Craig McLachlan, of Haddington and Lammermuir Area Partnership, along with Justine Bradd, from East Lothian Council.

“We just felt Haddington Athletic’s clubhouse was a perfect place to try to have a peer support group.

“People could come play football free, use the clubroom for a wee chat afterwards and meet some new friends.

“We are aware of the issues in Haddington and surrounding area with mental health and the suicide rate.

“It was ‘what can we do as Haddington Athletic?’”

'It can save lives'

The Haddy Huddle kicks off at the 3G park on the town’s Whittingehame Drive on Sunday, 7-9pm.

Mr Bowsher stressed it was open to anyone who was struggling.

He felt that progress was being made in terms of young men speaking out about their mental health struggles.

However, he added: “I think it is changing but there is still a fair bit to go with that as well.”

Councillor Colin McGinn, council cabinet member for community wellbeing, encouraged people to head along. He said: “The Haddy Huddle is an incredibly worthwhile initiative and I commend everyone involved.

“Too many lives are lost to suicide each year amongst people who, for whatever reason, feel alone.

“Groups like the Haddy Huddle are there to show that you are not alone.

“A space where young men can have open and honest conversations around mental health can literally save lives.

“Combining peer support with physical activity through a game of football is a great mix to build strong relationships and a local support network in a friendly and non-judgemental space.

“I hope it is a great success.”

For more information, call 01620 823137.