Welsh football clubs are being encouraged to access new training courses on mental health awareness.
Around a thousand places are being made available as part of a new support drive backed by the FAW.
It was launched at a special event at Barry Town United's Jenner Park ground on Thursday by legendary Wales & Everton keeper Neville Southall and sports minister Jack Sergeant.
The Welsh Government says the e-learning course - provided by Mind Cymru and UK Coaching - will be delivered initially to clubs across Wales.
The initial focus of the scheme will be to assist in more immediate action - but Sport Wales is developing a longer-term preventative approach to tackle stigma and risk factors, as well as creating environments supporting positive mental health and wellbeing.
Wales men's manager Craig Bellamy is among those backing the drive, saying: "It's important that we all take the time to raise our awareness and understanding of mental health and how we can support the people around us."
"This e-learning course will help football clubs to understand how they can play their part in increasing awareness and understanding and I would encourage all clubs in Wales to get involved and take advantage of this training."
For Jack Sergeant, mental health is a cause close to his heart.
In 2017, he became the Labour MS for Alyn and Deeside after his father - former communities minister Carl Sergeant - killed himself.
Five years later, Jack lost his best friend of over twenty years, Jamie Wynne, who also took his own life.
Jack said: "It means so much to me to be able to kick this training programme forward and establish something that will really help people, especially now during Mental Health Week."
"This is not an easy subject for me to talk about, but I know helping people share is important and it’s the best way I can remember my friend, Jamie, who was so passionate about the good grassroots football could do."
"I want to do anything and everything I can to ensure we can best help those who need support, no matter the setting. Using sports and especially football in this way is such an on-the-ground way to reach people who may not traditionally open-up otherwise. If it leads to one meaningful conversation, it’ll be worth it."
The Welsh Government says the new courses will equip coaches with the skills and knowledge to better understand and support people living with mental health issues, while helping to create "a positive environment where everyone can enjoy the benefits of being active and feel encouraged to return."
Hayley Jarvis, head of physical activity at Mind, added: "This training has the potential to reach every football club in Wales and make a real and tangible impact. This course gives coaches the confidence and tools to make their sessions more inclusive and supportive."
"It’s a vital step toward breaking down barriers, tackling stigma, and making sport and physical activity welcoming for everyone—especially those of us living with mental health problems."
The Jenner Park launch was hosted by Barry Town United's club secretary David Cole.
- For mental health information and support in Welsh and English, visit www.Mind.org.uk/Info
- The anonymous Samaritans helpline is available 24/7 on 116 123 and their Welsh helpline is available everyday on 0808 164 0123 from 7-11pm
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