Minds United FC expands inclusive football to Barnet after five years in west London
The club, founded by Tarik Kaidi in 2019, now offers women’s, futsal and mixed teams with mental health support at every session
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A football club that places mental health and inclusion at its core has started running sessions in Barnet. Minds United FC was established in 2019 by Tarik Kaidi and has since grown to include women’s, futsal and mixed teams. The club ensures at least three staff members are present at every session to support players.
A space for all abilities
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Minds United FC was created to provide a safe environment for people of all abilities to play football. The club now operates five mixed teams, two futsal teams and a women’s team. Aaliyah Farah, who joined in 2021 as a women’s football developer, said players come for different reasons. Some seek happiness, others inclusion, she told South West Londoner.
Some people are happier, some people come because they just want to be included, everyone has a different reason.
Aaliyah Farah, women’s football developer at Minds United FC
Farah explained that some players feel unable to participate in mainstream football due to concerns about performance. The club’s staff are trained to provide support during sessions. If a player needs to talk or requires help, assistance is immediately available. The club’s approach is based on the understanding that regular exercise can improve mood and mental wellbeing.
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What happens next in Barnet
Minds United FC has not yet announced a permanent venue in Barnet. Sessions are currently held at various locations across the borough. Residents interested in joining can find details on the club’s website. The club has not disclosed whether it has received funding or support from Barnet Council.
Questions this report answers
+Who founded Minds United FC and when?
Minds United FC was founded in 2019 by Tarik Kaidi. The club was created to provide an inclusive space for football, prioritising mental health and support for all abilities, as reported by South West Londoner.
+What teams does Minds United FC offer?
Minds United FC runs five mixed football teams, two futsal teams and a women’s team. The club ensures all sessions are inclusive and supported by staff, according to South West Londoner.
+How does Minds United FC support players’ mental health?
The club provides at least three staff members at every session to support players. They offer assistance if someone needs to talk or requires help, focusing on mental wellbeing and inclusion, as stated by Aaliyah Farah.
+Can Barnet residents join Minds United FC?
Yes, Barnet residents can join Minds United FC. Sessions are held at various locations in the borough. Details are available on the club’s website, as reported by South West Londoner.
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