Eagles legend Julian Speroni supports mental health campaign set up by We Are Palace

BY SAM SMITH

Crystal Palace legend Julian Speroni has thrown his support behind a mental health campaign which has got the support of the charity Mind.

The initiative was set up by the fans’ charity We Are Palace – a collection of fan groups, blogs, podcasts and fanzines.

Last year, they campaigned to raise funds for the Norwood & Brixton food bank and before Christmas led an initiative to donate toys to under-privileged children in South London. Overall, an impressive £14,500 has been raised by this group so far.

A member of We Are Palace, Paul Price, also organised pre-match ‘walk and talk’ events that encourage individuals to speak about their mental wellbeing while walking to games. Over 500 fans from various clubs have taken part.

Former goalkeeper Speroni made 405 appearances for the Eagles across 13 years. The Argentine had the following message for Palace fans: “This last year has been a difficult one. Hopefully, we will soon be allowed to go back to stadiums, go back to football, to Selhurst, and to enjoy what we love.

“In the meantime, look after yourself, look after each other and don’t be scared of asking for help if you need to. A lot of people have been through the same situation and they understand what you’re going through.”

Research by Mind has found that 68 per-cent of young people say their mental health has become worse during lockdown. That figure is 60 per-cent for adults.

Jack Holloway, media relations officer for Mind, said: “We know what a great contribution Palace supporters make to their club and to their local community. It’s been great to see Palace fan-led initiatives, like the ‘walk and talk’ events which are raising awareness of mental health problems, not only among Palace supporters but in wider society. They have had brilliant support so far, with 500 fans, or more, in attendance.

“You don’t need to be a mental health expert to make a really big difference to those around you. Just dropping your mate a text to ask: ‘how are you doing?’ and just listening non-judgementally… that can make a huge difference. It could be the beginning of them getting further support.

“It’s been fantastic working with We Are Palace on this initiative and we look forward to working with them again in the future.”

Gavin Ó Dónaill, spokesperson for We Are Palace, said: “It’s great to have partnered with Mind on this campaign and to have club legend, Julian Speroni’s important message for the fans, which shows what a real community club Palace is.”

Anyone struggling with their mental health is encouraged to go to mind.org.uk or to call their info line 0300 123 3393. Alternatively, an individual in urgent need of support can call the Samaritans’ confidential listening service on 116 123.