Forget Me Knot FC, a group launched through Port Vale Foundation in August last year that supports bereaved dads, appeared on ITV’s This Morning.
Four members spoke bravely, openly, and honestly on the show about their experiences and how the session allows them to process and release their feelings.
Forget Me Knot sessions run once a fortnight, where everyone sits round and discusses, listens, and supports others; following that, the lads play football to let off steam and enjoy a kick-about.
UHNM bereavement midwives Sarah and Caroline attend the sessions and work closely with the Foundation. Their involvement helps create a safe and welcoming environment for dads right from the start.
At the end of the interview, our kit manufacturer, Puma and This Morning kindly surprised Forget Me Knot FC with a full set of kits for the group.
Also on the This Morning sofa was Port Vale Foundation’s Brett Pointon, who leads the group. Speaking after the interview, he said:
“Today’s experience was really incredible, the guys at ITV and This Morning were really great and supportive, and that exposure alone is remarkable.
“We got to spread the Forget Me Knot word and we really got to address men’s mental health and what these guys are going through and how much support is actually needed, hence the reason why we need to become a One Vale community and all of the clubs around the country need to link up with us and follow that drive and follow that initiative.
“It makes such a difference in men’s lives, not just the men themselves because everyone in that family is suffering.”
Forget Me Knot FC welcomes dads, uncles, brothers, and grandads who have experienced baby or child loss. Sessions run every other Monday.
Anyone who is interested in joining the group can contact brett.pointon@port-vale.co.uk.