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“Together Against Suicide,” a new initiative from the Premier League, backed by all 20 of its clubs, has been created with suicide prevention charity Samaritans to support fans affected by suicide or suicidal thoughts. The project was developed in collaboration with British broadcaster and mental health advocate, Roman Kemp, and Tottenham Hotspur CEO, Vinai Venkatesham.
Recent data shows that someone in the UK takes their own life every 90 minutes, and one in four people have had suicidal thoughts. Launched on World Suicide Prevention Day (Sep 10), the initiative is raising awareness of the information and expertise available for anyone who needs it. The League is funding 11 clubs to implement the campaign for fans at home matchdays across the 2025/26 season.
The pilot began September 13 with the clubs providing tailored environments for fans to talk in safe, non-judgmental settings, as well as directing them to trusted support organizations. Clubs involved include Arsenal, Aston Villa, Brentford, Brighton & Hove Albion, Chelsea, Everton, Liverpool, Tottenham Hotspur, West Ham United, Wolverhampton Wanderers and Southampton.
“There are many ways for people to have the conversations that can have a positive impact on their mental wellbeing, whether this is by utilizing the matchday services… speaking to family and friends or by contacting Samaritans or other experts in this area for confidential advice,” said Premier League Chief Executive, Richard Masters. “This is about using the power of football to help save lives and we urge fans to look after themselves and those they care about.”
The latest survey data from Samaritans reveals that 60% of people had their suicidal thoughts interrupted by someone close to them, such as a friend or family member, demonstrating the importance of talking to those who you think might be struggling.
As part of the initiative, the organization will provide training to club staff to ensure they feel equipped and supported to lead suicide prevention activity with fans. The League is also funding club subscriptions to R;pple, a digital tool that discreetly intercepts harmful online searches and directs users to free, 24/7 mental health support.
“One in four of us experience suicidal thoughts but suicide is not inevitable. Suicidal thoughts can be interrupted and a moment of human connection can be all it takes to save a life. Our volunteers answer a call for help every 10 seconds but we can’t prevent suicide alone – we are all on the same team and everyone has a role to play,” said Samaritans Chief Executive, Julie Bentley.
“Together Against Suicide is an amazing opportunity to reach thousands of people with the important message that it’s okay to talk more openly about suicide. By tackling societal stigma and creating more sources of support for those in crisis, this initiative will help us save lives.”
The League has also created an online hub which includes information on signs and symptoms for people to look for if they are concerned about how they or someone else is feeling. The hub offers support and referral information to both domestic and international services. Visit premierleague.com/togetheragainstsuicide for more information.
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