Newcastle United and Newcastle City Council have teamed up during Mental Health Awareness Week 2026 to launch the powerful "One of Our Own" campaign—an initiative that uses the unifying power of football to spark life-saving conversations.
Eleven black-and-white benches have been placed around St. James' Park, each one designed with thoughtful prompts to help turn casual "terrace talk" into meaningful discussions about mental wellbeing. In a region where suicide remains the leading cause of death for men under 50, these benches serve a crucial purpose: breaking the silence and offering a safe space to open up.
"These benches are a brilliant way to encourage people to take a minute, sit down, and have those important conversations," said Dan Burn, Newcastle United player and Foundation Ambassador. "If we can use the connection we share through football to help someone open up or reach out for support, then it's a massive win for the whole community."
The campaign builds on the success of the club's "Be A Game Changer" initiative, which has already helped over 10,000 people of all ages through physical and mental wellbeing programmes. These include the 12th Man and 12th Woman programmes, Walking Football, and dedicated Wellbeing Workshops—proving that football's impact goes far beyond the pitch.
Struggling yourself or worried about someone? You aren't alone. A dedicated North East support network is available 24/7 to listen and help whenever you're ready.
NHS Crisis Services (North East & North Cumbria)
Call: 111 and select the Mental Health option (24/7). Available for anyone struggling to cope or in emotional distress (all ages).
For Under-35s
Support available for young people and those worried about a young person.
For Men (18+) in Suicidal Crisis
Rapid, face-to-face clinical support available. Location: Summerhill Street, Newcastle. Call: 0191 406 6000.
Out-of-Hours Crisis Support (Alternative to A&E)
For adults needing support outside regular hours. Locations: Newcastle, Wallsend, Ashington. Hours: 2pm–10pm, 365 days a year.
Support for Those at Risk, Families, and the Bereaved
Covering Newcastle, Gateshead, North and South Tyneside, and Northumberland. Call: 0330 174 3174 (evening hours available).
Whether you're a lifelong fan or new to the city, these benches invite you to take a seat, take a breath, and take the first step toward a conversation that could change everything. Because every member of the Newcastle United family truly is one of our own.