Ben and Becky join local residents to talk mental health and wellbeing

Ben Davies and Becky Spencer joined local residents today (Thursday 5 August) in a virtual Q&A about the importance of mental health and wellbeing ahead of our second match in The Mind Series.

This Sunday, both our men’s (2pm kick-off) and women’s (4.45pm kick-off) first teams host Arsenal in a north London derby double-header at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. Alongside Chelsea, the three clubs are taking part in a first-of-its-kind series of pre-season friendlies to support better mental health and raise vital funds for Mind – the UK’s leading mental health charity.

Ben and Becky took part in Q&A with participants from Shape Up With Spurs, a free programme delivered by Tottenham Hotspur Foundation to promote physical and mental wellbeing among local residents.

During the call, the group had the opportunity to talk about the positive impact that physical activity has on mental wellbeing, as well as the importance of community and breaking down the stigma associated with mental health. Studies have shown that just 10 minutes of physical activity a day decreases the chance of depression and anxiety and can lead to a better and more balanced lifestyle.

Speaking after the call, Ben said: “I have always loved exercising and I’m incredibly lucky to be able to do that every day while being supported by my team-mates. After what has been a challenging year for so many, it has never been more important to talk about mental health. Mental wellbeing should always come first and it’s vital that people realise it is okay to not be okay. Tottenham Hotspur Foundation and Mind do fantastic work and the money raised from this weekend’s game will help them continue to do so.”

Becky added: “It was evident that after speaking with participants from Shape Up With Spurs today, the power of sport and physical activity is so incredibly important to raise awareness and tackle mental health stigma. This Sunday is set to be a thrilling double-header for both the men’s and women’s teams, and we are so excited to welcome fans back at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.”

One participant commented: “Thank you to Ben and Becky for giving up their time today to talk to us all about the importance of mental health. It was so interesting to hear two professional footballers talk so openly about such a significant topic. We wish them both the very best of luck for Sunday – Come On You Spurs!”

Funds raised from The Mind Series will be split between Mind and each of the clubs’ charitable foundations. £5 from the sale of each Spurs v Arsenal match ticket will be donated to Mind and the Tottenham Hotspur Foundation. Each organisation will use its donation to support mental health and wellbeing projects in communities both at home and overseas.

To learn more about what Tottenham Hotspur is delivering on its doorstep, visit our Passionate About Tottenham web page.