Ebbsfleet United is proud to announce a new partnership with the Elliott Holmes Memorial Fund CIC (EHMF), aimed at enhancing mental health support for young people in Gravesham.
Since April 2022, EHMF has been a vital resource for over 250 young individuals in the area, providing fast, direct access to essential mental health counselling. Unlike many services, EHMF operates without public sector funding, relying entirely on community events and donations to continue their important work. The need for this service is critical; with the NHS under strain, young people in Gravesham face long waits—sometimes up to three years for free counselling. Heartbreakingly, 91% of those who self-refer to EHMF have been unable to find the support they need elsewhere.
The Fleet have already shown our commitment to this cause by hosting Elliott Holmes Memorial Fund’s first Inter-schools Wellbeing Trophy in April. The club donated the gate money from the day to EHMF, marking the start of what promises to be a fruitful partnership.
Fleet CEO Damian Irvine emphasised the importance of this partnership: “Our club is deeply rooted in the community, and we see first-hand the challenges young people are facing. By partnering with EHMF, we’re committed to helping them extend their reach and impact, ensuring more young people get the support they need.”
The collaboration will allow EHMF to tap into Ebbsfleet United’s platform to raise awareness and also build stronger connections with local schools. Peter Scutts, Director of EHMF, sees this as a significant step forward: “This partnership with Ebbsfleet United FC is a major boost for us. Together, we can highlight the growing need for mental health services and make counselling more accessible for the youth of Gravesham.”
This partnership represents a meaningful commitment to addressing a critical issue in the community, and both organisations are eager to make a lasting difference.
Pictured above: Ready to tackle mental health challenges head-on – Peter Scutts, Director of Elliott Holmes Memorial Fund, presenting a certificate for the £1,532 already raised to Phil Moss, Schools Coordinator at Ebbsfleet United FC.
For more information:
Peter Scutts, Director EHMF CIC
07973 344865
[email protected]
