As part of the Heads Up campaign, all 32 ties in the competition will kick-off one minute later than their traditionally scheduled timeslots, meaning Wolves’ match against United has been delayed from the usual time of 5.30pm.
Spearheaded by HRH The Duke of Cambridge, the campaign is attempting to harnesses the influence and popularity of football to encourage more people – particularly men – to feel comfortable talking about, and taking action to improve, their mental health and to recognise that mental fitness is just as important as physical fitness.
During the minute delay, fans will be encouraged to consider the positive impact 60 seconds can have on their own wellbeing or in supporting a friend or family member.
Mark Bullingham, The FA’s chief executive, said: “Whilst delaying kick-off times by 60 seconds is a simple idea, it provides a powerful platform for us and our Heads Up charity partners to deliver a really important message on mental health.
“We know that men in particular can be reluctant to talk about the subject, so it is important that we use football as a vehicle to stress the importance of mental fitness.”
Heads Up is partnering with Public Health England’s Every Mind Matters to draw attention to free, online resources to improve mental health and wellbeing, while fans will be provided with helpful tips and advice on how they can approach managing their mental health. Messaging will also be visible across the weekend of FA Cup fixtures, both in stadia and for the millions watching on TV.
Godric Smith, chairman of the Heads Up campaign, said: “It is fitting that the first big Heads Up campaign moment should be linked to the Emirates FA Cup third round – a signature moment in any football season.
“We want to use its power to help show that we all have mental health and that we can all take a minute to focus on how we can start to improve it.”
For more information on the Heads Up campaign visit TheFA.com/HeadsUp and headstogether.org.uk/heads-up. Fans can also search ‘Every Mind Matters’ to create their own personal mental health action plan. Those in need of immediate support can text ‘HeadsUp’ to 85258 to be connected to a trained crisis counsellor. This service is available 24/7, and free to text from most mobile networks.
