Child loss football club 'a lifeline' for dads
Blackburn Rovers Community TrustA football club which was set up to help fathers who have experienced the loss of a child is described as a "lifeline" by bereaved dads, the English Football League has said.
Blackburn Rovers Dads FC, which sees players getting together for a free match run by qualified coaches from Blackburn Rovers Community Trust has been named EFL Championship Community Project of the Season.
The men are also offered support and many stay in contact beyond the group, holding social events or sharing fundraising.
The award "recognises an outstanding club charity project that delivers meaningful and lasting change for the people of the local community beyond football".
Starting with just two dads, Blackburn Rovers Dads FC has now grown to 25 members meeting for weekly football sessions.
It provides an informal space combining football, conversation and specialist support.
Founder Sarah Bernasconi-Parsons from Maggie's Stillbirth Legacy - a charity that supports bereaved families - said she had the idea to set up the team because "men and sports goes hand in hand".
Gary Robinson, chief executive officer at Blackburn Rovers Community Trust, said: "The award is a testament to the compassion, commitment and support the project provides to bereaved dads in our community."
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