At Hayward Transport, our core ethos has always been about putting people first. That is why we are exceptionally proud to partner with the Walsall FC Foundation to support their life-changing work in our local community. As the official charity of Walsall FC, the Foundation uses the power of football to make a tangible difference, with a strong focus on improving mental health.

“As a Walsall founded company, it was an easy call to partner with Walsall FC Foundation because it allows us to extend our support to those who need it most,” says Managing Director, Sean Hayward. “Mental health challenges affect so many people, often in silence, and we are very proud to stand behind initiatives that encourage people to open up, connect, and seek help.”

We recently partnered with Walsall FC Foundation on this powerful video, which highlights a phrase that we often hear, and say far too often, even when we don’t mean it: “I’m all good.”

The message of the video is simple but crucial: you can’t always tell what burden someone is carrying just by looking at them. People showing up each day, having a laugh with their mates, and getting on with their day can still be fighting immense internal battles, whilst suffering in silence.

The video serves as a stark reminder that checking in on your friends and colleagues can be a literal lifeline. Sometimes, it takes asking a second time if someone is OK, or just being someone who is genuinely willing to listen, to make a world of difference.

We encourage everyone to watch and share this video. By sharing it, we can collectively help break the stigma surrounding mental health, spark vital conversations, and remind those amongst us who are struggling that they don’t have to carry the weight alone.

One of the most impactful initiatives we support is the Walsall FC Foundation’s Beat the Block mental health programme. Football has a unique way of breaking down barriers, and this initiative uses the sport to bring people together, creating a welcoming environment where people can stay active, build connections, and support one another’s wellbeing.

• Sessions take place every Thursday from 10:30am to 12:00pm at the Pallet-Track Bescot Stadium.
• Participants enjoy a one-hour football session led by the Walsall FC Foundation staff.
• The football session is followed by a 30-minute social gathering in the Walsall FC Foundation community room.
• Beat the Block provides a welcoming and supportive environment where attendees can speak openly with coaches, fellow participants, and mental health professionals from Walsall Rethink and Black Country Healthcare Foundation.
• Our support helps the Foundation continue improving the mental and physical wellbeing of adults through these weekly sessions.

Physical activity is proven to lift mood and reduce stress, but it’s the community, zero-judgement environment, and feeling of camaraderie built during Beat the Block sessions that truly combat isolation and help to change lives.

For Hayward’s, backing this initiative hits close to home. The haulage and logistics sector can be incredibly demanding, and we know firsthand how important it is to look out for one another’s wellbeing. As Operations Director, Pete Radburn notes, the Foundation’s work with Beat the Block is genuinely transformative:

“We are honoured to support a project that provides a safe, inclusive space for people to stay active and break the stigma surrounding mental health. It’s a vital reminder that while physical activity can have a great effect on moods and reducing stress, the true antidote for isolation is the connections made on and off the pitch.”

You don’t have to explain everything to say something. Just say something.

If you or someone you know is struggling, please know that help is available and you do not have to face it all alone.

If you want to talk, call or text :07939 892172.

For more information on the Walsall FC Foundation’s initiatives, visit: walsallfcfoundation.com.