Picture: CALM
North East-based suicide prevention charity If U Care Share Foundation are asking for the support of the Non-League family as they prepare to hold their annual ‘Inside Out' campaign.
The Foundation received the backing of a whole host of Non-League clubs around the country last year when they were able to reach over nine million people with their award-winning social media campaign.
‘Inside Out' will now return for the fifth consecutive year on Tuesday, September 10 as the Foundation asks supporters to turn their clothes inside out and post images on social media using the hashtag #AskMeWhy and #InsideOut.
The Foundation has a strong connection with the Non-League game in the North East and co-founder Matthew Smith has spent time playing in the Northern League with the likes of Durham City and Chester-le-Street Town.
He now plays for Wearside League new-boys Durham United who are managed by his Dad and If U Care Share Foundation Chairman Dean Smith.
Matthew, 25, set up the Foundation alongside his younger brother Ben and cousin Sarah following the passing of his eldest sibling Daniel, who took his own life, without any warning at the age of just 19.
‘Inside Out' has become a key part of the Foundation's work and is scheduled to run alongside Worldwide Suicide Prevention Day.
Just days before a busy Non-League schedule that includes several big FA Cup First Qualifying Round tie and a whole host of eye-catching league fixtures across the pyramid will take place and the Foundation are asking clubs across the country to get on board by showing their support on Saturday, September 7.
Smith explained the impact that suicide can have and why the campaign gives such a strong message.
Speaking to The NLP, he said: “We know suicide literally can turn someone's life Inside Out therefore that is why we want to bring the conversation from the Inside Out.
“We know the power of having timely and appropriate support and it starts with a conversation.
“We would love to have the support of people from every walk of life to make this year the biggest Inside Out campaign yet.
“As a Foundation, we have been extremely grateful for the support we have received from the non-league family over the last five years and we would encourage everyone within the game to once again wear an item of clothing inside, start a conversation and spread our message.”
Clubs can find out more about the Inside Out campaign, register to take part and download posters and guides by heading to www.ifucareshare.co.uk/inside-out
