Self Directed Support has been promoted in a ground breaking way in East Dunbartonshire. At Ceartas we have teamed up with Heartfelt, as part of the Shine Partnership, and Clyde FC Community Foundation to deliver “Get Onside” a football course with a twist!

Get Onside is a 9 week course that combines learning about Self Directed Support and discussing what makes a good life for individuals who have used mental health services.

Each afternoon is very much a game of two halves, the first half being the indoors based ‘Tactics Board’, while the second half is outdoors for some coaching and a game of 5 a-sides with Clyde Manager and former Scotland captain Barry Ferguson and Clyde’s Assistant manager Bob Malcolm.

The programme has been varied with sessions on leadership, dealing with stigma, working as a team and accessing independent advocacy being just some of the topics discussed. The group has also received detailed information on how self-directed support can be a positive change in the lives of people receiving services.

Following the success of Get Onside, developed by Ceartas and Heartfelt, the pilot has been extended from 6 weeks to 9 weeks. Additionally there has been interest expressed by a further two senior football teams, therefore it is hoped the course will become a permanent fixture in raising awareness about Self Directed Support in East Dunbartonshire and beyond.

Get Onside runs each Wednesday until 17th December.

For further information contact us on 0141 775 0433 or email info@ceartas.org.uk