Founder of Saving Souls FC, Men’s Forum, and foodbank Kerry Phillips spoke to us as part of Black History Month 2024 movement Reclaiming Narratives. Kerry tells his story of growing up in Southeast London, how he promotes a safe space for men to talk about their mental health through football, and whose narratives inspire him. 

"Football has been a constant in my life since I was a young boy growing up in Southeast London. It was a way for us to play out and make games against each other in the flat or against the garages. Arsenal has always been a big part of that especially as now I am older, I am a season ticket holder it gives me a sense of belonging. But football’s been more than just a passion for me, it’s been a crucial tool in managing my mental health. Now, through the mental health football team I run, I can provide that same safe space for other men, showing how powerful football can be when it comes to mental wellbeing.

"Playing football or watching football is like hitting the reset button for me. It’s where I can forget everything else going on and just focus on the game. It’s has always been a place where I can clear my mind. That’s why it was so important for I’ve seen first hand how football can bring people together and provide an outlet. 

"Over the years, football has shifted from just something I do for fun to something that’s also part of my purpose. When I was younger, I was all about playing anywhere I could or watching Arsenal every chance I got. That’s still true today, especially going home and away games it’s an escape and a way to connect with other football fans. Now running the mental health football team has added another layer. I’m not just enjoying football for myself anymore, I’m using it to help others and build new connections. 

"I have been inspired to reclaim my narrative by Patrick Vieira, Arsenal’s legendary captain, who was inspirational as a powerful, intelligent midfielder, he led by example, showing that leadership in football. Vieira’s rise from difficult beginnings in Senegal to lifting trophies as captain of Arsenal shows how we can take control of our own paths, no matter the obstacles. It used to be and at some part it is still difficult for men but especially black men to speak about mental health in football. That’s part of what inspired me to start the mental health football team. I wanted to reclaim my own story, using football as a way to help others black men open up about mental health, and create a space where they feel empowered to share their experiences and take control of their own mental health journey.

"There are also other people like Leon Mann, Troy Townsend, Andrew Ducille, all people working at the grassroots level and professional level that inspire me. I see how Black men connect through the game, using football as a platform to support each other and break down barriers around mental health. We know the challenges we face in society, but seeing Black men come together, open up, and support one another in a space that football creates is inspiring on a whole other level.

"Football has always been a lifeline for me, and I know it’s the same for many others. Having access to football isn’t just about staying active or following your favourite team it’s about having a space where you can forget about the stresses of life, connect with others, and feel a part of something bigger than yourself."