The Premier League and all 20 of its clubs will support the “Inside Every Head” suicide prevention campaign from 4 to 14 September, with matchday safe spaces being made available to fans across the division.
During the 2024/25 season, every Premier League club will receive funding from the league to provide welcoming, non-judgemental areas at home matches. Supporters will be able to speak to trained organisations and access trusted services for help with suicide-related concerns and emotional distress.
The league-wide programme follows a successful pilot scheme involving 11 clubs last season. The initiative is being delivered by the Premier League in partnership with suicide prevention charity Samaritans, with support from presenter Roman Kemp and Tottenham Hotspur chief executive Vinay Venkatesham.
Its purpose is to increase public understanding of suicide prevention and guide people towards professional support. The campaign also aims to help individuals recognise signs that someone may be struggling, while giving them the confidence to begin conversations that could save a life.
In the UK, one person dies by suicide every 90 minutes, while one in four people will experience suicidal thoughts during their lifetime.
The impact of last season’s campaign was reflected in the response to Samaritans’ national helpline, which received as many as 300 additional calls each day after the initiative was launched. That increase was cited as evidence that greater awareness can lead directly to more people seeking help.
Premier League Chief Executive Richard Masters said football clubs were well placed to support people in difficult circumstances because of their close connection with local communities.
“Football clubs are at the heart of their communities and play a powerful role when people face difficult times.
“Expanding ‘Inside Every Head’ to all 20 Premier League clubs is an important step.
“By creating safe and welcoming spaces on matchdays, clubs can encourage conversations and help fans affected by suicide or suicidal thoughts access the support and professional advice they need.
“Feedback from last season’s pilot project showed the difference that raising awareness and encouraging dialogue can make. By rolling this initiative out across the entire league, we hope more fans will know that help is available and that they never have to face these challenges alone.”
The campaign will be given prominent coverage during Premier League fixtures between 4 and 14 September. It will also form part of activities marking World Suicide Prevention Day on 10 September.
The expanded scheme means supporters at every Premier League club will have access to a dedicated space where they can seek help without fear of judgement and be connected with organisations able to provide further assistance.
The Premier League’s involvement comes as clubs continue to use their reach within communities to address issues affecting supporters away from the pitch. Through “Inside Every Head”, the league and its clubs hope to make it easier for people to identify when help may be needed and to reassure those experiencing suicidal thoughts that professional support is available.
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