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Nottingham Forest players Harry Toffolo and Zach Abbott recently attended a men’s mental health session hosted by Bottled Up Blokes, demonstrating their commitment to supporting the local community and openly talking about mental health.

The weekly Bottled Up Blokes sessions, aimed at encouraging open conversations about mental health, provide participants with the opportunity to share their experiences and receive support.

During the session, Toffolo and Abbott discussed the importance of togetherness on and off the pitch, highlighting how camaraderie can play a pivotal role in supporting mental wellbeing.

Toffolo shared insights on how team spirit and unity build resilience, which translates to both footballing success and everyday life.

Abbott, reflecting on his transition from the Nottingham Forest Academy to the first-team environment, spoke about navigating periods of change and finding confidence in new settings.

The session also provided both players with the chance to listen to participants who opened up about their personal challenges and struggles.

The topics and themes of the weekly sessions are guided by participants’ conversations, ensuring they remain relevant and impactful.

Facilitated by Bottled Up Blokes founder Tim Cox, the sessions nurture an open and inclusive environment where everyone feels heard and supported.

Both players encouraged attendees to embrace the courage to talk and emphasised that building strong relationships is key to overcoming challenges.

This commitment to mental health is further reinforced through Nottingham Forest Community Trust’s Tricky to Talk programme, which  the work of organisations like Bottled Up Blokes by providing additional opportunities for support and dialogue.

As part of the programme, Tricky to Talk ambassador Toffolo also attended a Tricky Hub session at the City Ground.

In a similar format to Bottled Up Blokes, Harry spoke openly and listened to participants both in the room and those who had joined remotely, highlighting the value of open dialogue and peer support in developing mental wellbeing.

Colin Eley, Nottingham Forest Community Trust Health and Wellbeing Manager, commented: “It’s fantastic to see Forest players actively supporting mental health initiatives. Mental health is a critical part of overall wellbeing, and creating safe spaces for men to share and connect is essential.

“Nottingham Forest Community Trust is committed to supporting the mental wellbeing of our participants, and this forms a key part of our overall strategy to improve lives through health, education, and community development.

“These sessions highlight the power of collaboration, conversation, and connection in breaking down barriers and building a stronger, healthier community.”

Nottingham Forest Community Trust is proud to work closely with Bottled Up Blokes – an initiative providing vital support and signposting services to men across Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire. The group creates a safe space for men to share their thoughts, tackle mental health stigma, and access resources to improve their wellbeing.

Through the Trust’s own initiatives like Tricky Hubs, the Trust extends this impact, offering welcoming spaces for fans and locals to discuss emotions, share experiences, and seek peer support as part of the Tricky to Talk mental health programme.

Find out more and book onto a session here.