This Foundation Day, we’re celebrating the amazing work of our Sale Sharks Foundation. This is Phil’s story….
Through HeadStart, our free physical and mental wellbeing programme, Sale Sharks Foundation is supporting people across the North West to move more, feel better and stay connected. For Phil, a veteran from our Sharks Forces community, the programme has been a vital step towards rebuilding both his physical fitness and mental wellbeing.
When Phil first joined HeadStart his goals were clear – to regain his previous fitness levels and improve his mental health. What he found was more than just an exercise programme. Through regular low-impact sessions and wellbeing walks, delivered in a safe and supportive environment, Phil has been able to build confidence, increase his stamina and reintroduce routine into his daily life.
Equally important has been the social connection the sessions provide. By bringing people together in an inclusive and welcoming space, HeadStart has helped Phil form meaningful relationships and strengthen his sense of belonging. Working closely with local partners also ensures the programme remains accessible and responsive to community needs, supporting more people like Phil to take part.
Phil’s progress reflects the wider impact of the Foundation’s HeadStart programme – improved confidence, reduced loneliness and better physical and mental wellbeing. For him, the sessions have become a positive and consistent part of life, helping him feel more connected and in control.
“My main goals when I started were to return to my previous physical fitness levels and improve my mental health,” Phil said. “The sessions help me to add routine to my daily life and improve my connections with other people.”
Phil’s story is a powerful example of how the right support, structure and environment can help people thrive. By creating opportunities for connection and improving access to inclusive physical activity, the Sale Sharks Foundation is helping to build healthier futures across our communities – a key part of the Foundation’s Levelling the Field strategy in action.
For further information about Sale Sharks Foundation and its programmes, please click here.
