Arsenal and Premier League launch matchday suicide prevention drop-in service

Arsenal have teamed up with the Premier League to launch a new suicide prevention drop-in service for supporters, opening for the first time at today’s clash with Manchester City.

The initiative is part of the league’s Together Against Suicide campaign, which aims to raise awareness of mental health struggles and provide confidential support on matchdays.

From two hours before kick-off, throughout the game and until two hours after the final whistle, fans will be able to access the service at The Arsenal Hub on Benwell Road, directly next to the Emirates Stadium. No appointment is required, with trained NHS mental health nurses on hand to offer confidential advice and support. The facility will be available at every Arsenal home match this season.

The campaign was formally launched earlier this month with an event at The Arsenal Hub ahead of the Gunners’ fixture against Nottingham Forest. Arsenal supporter and broadcaster Roman Kemp, Health Secretary Wes Streeting MP, Premier League CEO Richard Masters and Arsenal Managing Director Richard Garlick all attended, alongside representatives from the Samaritans, Islington Council and the North London NHS Foundation Trust.

The group highlighted the power of football to break down barriers, connect with supporters and reduce the stigma surrounding conversations on suicide. Research by the Samaritans underlines the urgency of the campaign: 5,565 suicides were registered in England in 2023, with men three times more likely to die by suicide. Islington, the borough Arsenal call home, has the second-highest rate of diagnosed depression and severe mental illness in London.

The launch also included a powerful contribution from Arsenal fans Alex and Dan of the Bruised Banana podcast, who shared their experience of losing their co-host and friend Tom to suicide. In a TNT Sports feature, they were joined by Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice to speak about the importance of openness, seeking help and supporting each other through difficult times.

By introducing a dedicated, confidential service at Emirates Stadium, Arsenal and the Premier League hope to ensure supporters never feel alone and always know that help is available.