Charlton Athletic Community Trust: Championing Mental Health

Mental health and wellbeing are no longer subjects spoken about in hushed tones—and at the heart of that transformation in south London and Kent stands Charlton Athletic Community Trust (CACT).

For over 30 years, CACT has gone beyond the pitch to help local communities thrive, particularly by supporting those struggling with mental health and wellbeing challenges. With a long-standing commitment to improving lives, CACT strives to show how sport, community and compassion can come together to make a real difference.

Established in 1992, CACT is the charitable arm of Charlton Athletic Football Club, working across south London and the surrounding areas of Kent to empower individuals through sport, education and community support. One of their most impactful focus areas is mental health and wellbeing, where they deliver a range of programmes and projects designed to support participants of all ages.

With NHS referrals, community signposting and a personable approach, CACT have been pioneering mental health support in a way that is both accessible and effective. Whether it’s through early intervention, peer-led support, or simply offering a place where people feel they belong, CACT understands that mental wellbeing is about more than just treatment—it’s about connection.

One of the most powerful recent examples of CACT’s life-changing work is the story of Azmeena Azim. Struggling with her mental health during a challenging period, Azmeena turned to CACT and was referred to their mental health team. Through CACT’s Early Intervention in Psychosis programme, Azmeena received the support she needed—not only professional guidance but also the sense of community and self-worth that had been missing from her life.

Azmeena credits CACT with giving her the tools to rebuild her confidence, manage her mental health and reconnect with her community. Her story is not unique; it represents the many lives changed through CACT’s tireless work.

She said: “CACT have helped me put some of my past life traumas behind me. I am smiling more and I feel like I have finally found myself. I am continuing to recover from my mental health difficulties and, even though the tunnel was a really, really long one, I can start to see light at the end of it. I don’t know what me and my family would have done without CACT.”

CACT run several specialised mental health and wellbeing programmes covering a range of activities, including their Extra Time Hub which is aimed at older adults to combat loneliness and isolation through social activities, physical exercise and mental stimulation, all of which are known to boost mental health.

Men’s health programmes include Walking Football, a non-contact version of the game which helps to maintain a healthy lifestyle while also creating a social atmosphere that men from all walks of life can enjoy, as well as a men’s social evening every Monday which provides the opportunity for men to come together to build new relationships, connect with others and support one another in a fun, friendly and social way.

Meanwhile, Young Greenwich, a youth service commissioned by Royal Borough of Greenwich and delivered by CACT, offers mental health support and counselling services to young people in a safe, non-judgmental environment.

Each programme is designed with inclusivity and accessibility in mind. Whether someone is experiencing a mental health crisis or just feeling the effects of social isolation, CACT provides a welcoming space to get help.

One of the keys to CACT’s success is its collaborative approach. By working with partners in the public and private sectors, CACT amplifies their reach and impact. A recent example is thier engagement with a trio of local businessesMartin Arnold, Potter Raper, and Faithorn Farrell Timms - whose employees have volunteered at CACT’s Extra Time Hub.

Volunteers from these companies participated in social activities, engaged in conversations with older community members and provided valuable support to the day’s programme. Interestingly, it wasn’t just the hub members who benefitted—the volunteers themselves reported improvements in their own mental wellbeing.

“Spending time at the Extra Time Hub gave me a sense of perspective and purpose,” said one volunteer from Potter Raper.

“Helping others in such a positive environment really lifted my spirits.”

Such mutual benefit underscores the importance of community-driven work. When businesses engage with local charities like CACT, the positive ripple effects extend to staff morale, corporate social responsibility goals and the broader health of the community.

In a world where mental health challenges are increasingly common, CACT’s work reminds us that local action can drive national change. By delivering evidence-based programmes, fostering strong partnerships and listening to the needs of the community, CACT is not just reacting to a crisis, it’s building a more resilient, connected community.

Businesses across the region are encouraged to explore opportunities for partnership, sponsorship, or volunteering with CACT. Supporting mental health is no longer the responsibility of health services alone—it’s a shared mission. And thanks to CACT’s leadership, they’re showing what’s possible when that mission is embraced.

For more information on Charlton Athletic Community Trust and how to get involved, visit www.cact.org.uk.