Premier League and Samaritans Launches ‘Together Against Suicide’ Initiative to Support Fans
By Mental Health Correspondent
The Premier League and Samaritans have launched ‘Together Against Suicide’, a new initiative to support football fans affected by suicide or suicidal thoughts, helping raise awareness of the information and expertise available to those who need it most.
The initiative launches on World Suicide Prevention Day and has been developed by the Premier League and Samaritans in collaboration with broadcaster Roman Kemp and Tottenham Hotspur CEO Vinai Venkatesham.
‘Together Against Suicide’ is backed by all 20 Premier League clubs, with the League is funding 11 clubs to provide bespoke support for fans at home matchdays across the 2025/26 season.
The pilot project begins on Saturday 13 September and will see clubs providing tailored environments to offer fans the opportunity to talk in safe, non-judgemental settings, as well as directing them to trusted support organisations.
Those involved are: Arsenal, Aston Villa, Brentford, Brighton & Hove Albion, Chelsea, Everton, Liverpool, Tottenham Hotspur, West Ham United, Wolverhampton Wanderers and Southampton.
There is also an online hub which includes information on signs and symptoms for people to look for if they are concerned about how they or someone else is feeling.
The hub offers support and referral information to both domestic and international services.
Visit premierleague.com/togetheragainstsuicide for more information.
Julie Bentley, Chief Executive at Samaritans, said:
“One in four of us experience suicidal thoughts but suicide is not inevitable. Suicidal thoughts can be interrupted and a moment of human connection can be all it takes to save a life. Our volunteers answer a call for help every 10 seconds but we can’t prevent suicide alone – we are all on the same team and everyone has a role to play.
“Together Against Suicide is an amazing opportunity to reach thousands of people with the important message that it’s okay to talk more openly about suicide. By tackling societal stigma and creating more sources of support for those in crisis, this initiative will help us save lives.”
Premier League Chief Executive Richard Masters said:
“Sadly, suicide is an issue that affects people of all ages from all backgrounds. We believe football can play a vital role in reducing the stigma around it and connecting fans who are experiencing suicidal thoughts with the support they need.
“By working with clubs and partners to develop ‘Together Against Suicide’, we want fans to understand that they do not have to deal with their problems alone.
“There are many ways for people to have the conversations that can have a positive impact on their mental wellbeing, whether this is by utilising the matchday services that are being launched by clubs this weekend, speaking to family and friends or by contacting Samaritans or other experts in this area for confidential advice.
“This is about using the power of football to help save lives and we urge fans to look after themselves and those they care about.”
As part of the initiative, Samaritans will provide training to club staff to ensure they feel equipped and supported to lead suicide prevention activity with fans.
The League is also funding club subscriptions to R;pple, a digital tool that discreetly intercepts harmful online searches and signposts users to free, 24/7 mental health support.
Broadcaster Roman Kemp, advocate for ‘Together Against Suicide’, said:
“As football fans, we are always there for our clubs. This initiative was created with the intention of flipping it on its head so clubs can be there for fans when they need it the most. As someone who has felt the impact of suicide and talked about experiencing suicidal thoughts myself, I know that the sense of community football brings can be used to help those in need and help save lives.
“I’m so proud to work on an initiative that puts compassion and connection at the heart of football and on something I really believe will make a difference to the fans that need it. A huge thank you to Vinai Venkatesham, who’s been working tirelessly to get this going, and to the Premier League for making this happen and getting the backing of all 20 Premier League clubs.”
The ‘Together Against Suicide’ initiative will be visible at all Premier League matches this weekend, helping to raise awareness of help available to a global audience.
Tottenham Hotspur CEO Vinai Venkatesham said:
“Together Against Suicide is a significant step in recognising the role that football can play in raising awareness of mental health issues and supporting people who are experiencing suicidal thoughts. I’d like to thank the Premier League and all 20 clubs for their support in shaping this initiative, and in particular Roman Kemp who came up with the idea that we see launching today.
“Sadly, suicide affects more people than many of us realise and this initiative sees the Premier League and clubs coming together to support fans – whether through safe spaces at stadiums or helping them access expert advice wherever they are.
“We want fans to understand that one conversation can make all the difference, and that they can turn to their clubs for support when they need it most.”
The latest survey data from Samaritans reveals that 60 per cent of people had their suicidal thoughts interrupted by someone close to them, such as a friend or family member, demonstrating the importance of taking the time to talk to others who you think might be struggling.
