Creating a vibrant community where players of all abilities can thrive

The leader of a disability football club that has championed inclusivity for more than two decades has been nominated to receive a Kent Mental Wellbeing Award. Kaitlin Hughes from the awards team chatted with nominee Lorraine Humm from the Raiders Football Club to find out more.

 

Lorraine Humm, the manager and head of disability football at the Raiders Disability Football section of Maidstone United Football Club, has been pivotal in advancing inclusive sports within the community.

They offer pan disability football, enabling players with a wide range of impairments and health conditions to participate together. This inclusive approach ensures that everyone, regardless of their physical or cognitive abilities, can enjoy the game and develop their skills in a supportive environment.

Currently, the program boasts 240 players ranging in age from five to 55. This diverse group benefits from the inclusive and supportive environment that Lorraine has cultivated, ensuring that each player receives the attention and resources they need to thrive.

Under Lorraine’s leadership, the program has seen remarkable growth and success. She has been a driving force in breaking down barriers and promoting a culture of acceptance and teamwork. The players, ranging from beginners to more experienced athletes, benefit from tailored coaching that addresses their unique needs while fostering a sense of camaraderie and mutual respect.

Run solely by volunteers, the program is driven by individuals who are passionate about making a positive impact on the lives of people with disabilities or mental health issues. These dedicated volunteers bring a wealth of experience and compassion, working tirelessly to create an inclusive and encouraging atmosphere for all participants.

Raiders have just celebrated their 20th anniversary, marking two decades of dedication to inclusive football and community support. This milestone reflects the program’s sustained impact and the unwavering commitment of its volunteers. Over the years, Raiders have grown into a vibrant community where players of all abilities can thrive, thanks to the passion and hard work of everyone involved.

Lorraine was diagnosed with dyslexia at 42, a revelation that deepened her understanding of the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities. This personal experience has fueled her passion and commitment to creating a supportive and inclusive environment within the Raiders Disability Football section. Her journey inspires many and underscores the importance of empathy and tailored support in sports and beyond.

As a child, Lorraine wanted to play football, but there were no opportunities for girls. Trying to play in mainstream boys’ teams was challenging and difficult, as she was often told that football wasn’t for girls. This experience shaped her dedication to creating inclusive opportunities for all, regardless of gender or ability. Lorraine has said, “I just wanted to play football and be treated equally and inclusively, that’s why I’ve championed for women in football and disability football.”

The Kent Mental Wellbeing awards is an annual event designed to showcase the people, organisations and initiatives that help us cope with life. The event’s three themes are: kindness and compassion; wellbeing; mental health.

Whether it is in school, business, community or family, so many of us have been lucky to have people and organisations with ideas, tips and tactics to help us cope. It is time to celebrate those mental health and well-being champions in our community and share this best practice.

The awards will be staged in October by the mental health charity Mind in Bexley and East Kent in collaboration with a range of wellbeing and mental health organisations.

Nominations can be linked to a simple act of kindness that lifted the spirits, a business that has improved staff wellbeing, through to a targeted initiative delivered by a charity or statutory organisation to support a mental health issue.

The event is sponsored by Kent County Council, Kent Community Foundation, ADM Computing, GrainLNG – National Grid, Medway Council, Optyma Security, Wave Community Bank, Cactus Graphics and CommunityAid.

Submit nominations at www.kentmentalwellbeingawards.org.uk  For awards news follow @KentMWAwards on Facebook and X, the platform formerly known as Twitter.