A charity walking football event will take place in Barnsley this summer, as players look to tackle more than just the ball and raise money for mental health support.

The game will take place at the Dorothy Hyman Sports Centre in July, and will raise money for Rotherham and Barnsley minds.

The charity who are organising the event, ‘Osbourn and Moo Support Bubble’, was set up by Robert Osbourn last year, alongside his brothers Rhys Osbourn and Connor Osbourn, as well as Robert’s wife Ky Osbourn, Connor’s partner Shelby Bray and close family friends Gina Patton and her daughter Macey (moo).

Rhys Osbourn helped to set up the charity as he has suffered with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety and depression from a young age.

Rhys wants as many people to come down for the charity’s first walking football event, and has received support from The Victoria Pub in Cudworth who are helping to raise money for the event that is close to their hearts.

He said: “We can break down the stigma and show that it’s okay not to be okay.

“Whether you are an experienced player or haven’t kicked a ball in years, you are more than welcome to come along, have some fun, and help us make a positive change.

“Let’s stand together for mental health.”

The link is widely recognised between playing sports and changes in mental health, as Sport England’s website explains: “There’s plenty of evidence that taking part in physical activity can have a profound and positive impact on mental wellbeing. 

“Being physically active can improve mood, decrease the chance of depression and anxiety and lead to a better and more balanced lifestyle.”

This is something that Rhys emphasises in his work, and supporting people through tough times is something he wants to be doing for a long time.

He said: “Events like walking football days really help people.

“They bring physical health, social connection and fun together, all things that are proven to help mental health.

“I love being the person to help someone and genuinely make people’s lives better.”

Rhys also feels the teamwork that comes with playing football will “help build a community where everyone feels heard, valued, and supported”.

The support bubble also recently held an Easter Bunny party for families that raised £252 for Rotherham and Barnsley Minds.

Rhys said: “It was nice seeing smiles on the children’s faces and I think it was really good meeting new people and gathering together as one.”