The club’s project ‘Mind Rover Matter’ was given the ‘Highly Commended’ award in the National Positive Practice in Mental Health Awards 2025.

Run by the Blackburn Rovers Community Trust, the programme meets every Wednesday from 1pm to 3pm, and supports those with serious mental illnesses through physical activity and social engagement sessions.

It provides tailored sessions to accommodate varying skill levels, which ensures everyone can take part while encouraging social connections at the Blackburn Rovers Indoor Centre.

Anthony Kenyon, who leads the project, said: “I think it is great that Blackburn Rovers Community Trust have been able to promote Mind Rover Matter and get the word out there about the great work that is going on at their fantastic facilities.

“For people who have severe mental illnesses and struggle to access services, this programme provides a lifeline as the Blackburn Rovers badge gets people in the building and gives them something to look forward to as they keep coming back week after week and promotes the idea of physical health and inclusivity in a supportive setting.”

The project is run in partnership with Lancashire South Cumbria NHS Foundation Trust and Blackburn with Darwen Mental Health Team.

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Fahima Iqbal, Head of Health and Wellbeing, is delighted about the impact Mind Rover Matter is having, “I am extremely pleased of the first 12 months of Mind Rover Matter, and I’d like to thank Lancashire and South Cumbria Foundation Trust for helping to give us the platform to provide this service.

“I would also like to thank the Blackburn with Darwen Community Mental Health team, who have signposted participants to us and spread the word about the impactful benefits of the sessions.

“The programme has been a great asset for the community and seeing the participants come out of their shells and make new friends whilst getting fitter and healthier through their passion for football has been incredibly rewarding.”