Derby County Community Trust hosted A Night with the Lads at Pride Park Stadium on Thursday evening, bringing people together for an open discussion about men’s mental health ahead of World Mental Health Day on Saturday 10th October.

Hosted by Owen Bradley in Captain’s Club, the event featured a panel discussion and Q&A with Derby County first-team defender Matt Clarke, DCFC Academy Psychologist Lyle Kirkham and former Rams player Shane Nicholson.

The panel brought together a range of perspectives, with Matt offering an insight into life as a current professional footballer, Shane drawing on his experiences as a former player and Lyle sharing his professional knowledge of mental health. Attendees also had the opportunity to put their own questions to the panel, contributing to an open discussion around the topic.

The discussion encouraged open conversation around men’s mental health, highlighting the value of creating opportunities for people to engage with the subject and hear different experiences. Ahead of World Mental Health Day, the evening also provided an opportunity to raise awareness of the support available to those who may be struggling.

Stalls from a range of support services were available throughout the evening, raising awareness of mental health help available and providing information on where to turn for support.

The evening also highlighted the work Derby County Community Trust delivers through Team Talk, our men’s peer support programme, which provides opportunities for men to socialise and enjoy activities in a welcoming environment.

Team Talk currently offers two weekly activities at Leisure United Derby Racecourse. Monday Night Football takes place from 7–8pm, providing a relaxed kickabout where participants can enjoy playing football without the pressure of referees or formal rules. 

The programme also offers a weekly Dad’s Space Social on Monday evenings, from 7–9pm also at Leisure United Derby Racecourse. Running alongside Connected Perinatal Support, the session gives expectant and new dads an informal space to unwind, enjoy a coffee and chat about fatherhood, share experiences or simply spend time with others.

Both activities offer opportunities for men to connect with others in a relaxed setting, whether through football or informal conversation. Where further support is needed, Team Talk can also signpost participants towards additional medical support or intervention.

A Night With the Lads and Team Talk are supported by the Premier League Fans Fund. The Premier League Fans Fund provides grants to support football clubs at all levels of the game to strengthen connections between them, their fans and local communities.

Through events such as A Night with the Lads and ongoing initiatives like Team Talk, Derby County Community Trust continues to create opportunities for men to come together, build connections and find out more about the support available to them.