From a Kick About to a Community: The Story of Headspace FC CIC

Headspace FC began with a simple idea in April 2024.

Brothers and founders Kenny Bartonshaw and Cliff Barton wanted to reconnect with some old football friends for a casual ten‑year reunion match. They organised a five‑a‑side game — just for fun, just for one night.

But something clicked.

After the match, over a drink at the pub, the conversation turned to doing it again the following week. That next game only drew six players. Still, instead of walking away, they saw an opportunity. It was clear this could be more than just a reunion.

So they opened the door to others — and Headspace FC was born.

A Simple Kick About That Grew Quickly

In the weeks that followed, numbers began to grow. People from across Stoke‑on‑Trent, Cheshire, Shropshire, Staffordshire, and Derbyshire started to join. They came from different backgrounds and with varying levels of football experience — some hadn’t played in years, others were complete beginners.

What brought them together was the same idea: a relaxed, pressure‑free environment where they could enjoy football, meet new people, stay active, and take time out from the stresses of everyday life.

What started as a casual kickabout quickly became something bigger.

Within just a month, games were regularly hitting 10‑a‑side and 11‑a‑side, with waiting lists forming on busy weeks. Headspace FC had grown into a grassroots football community built around inclusion, connection, and mental well‑being.

Putting Down Roots

By April 2025, just one year after that first reunion match, the group had moved to a new home at Longton Rugby Club. Weekly games continued with strong turnouts and an ever‑growing network of players.

But the mission didn’t stop on the pitch.

Kenny and Cliff wanted Headspace FC to have a wider impact. They partnered with the Stone‑based men’s mental health support group Man Time, helping to formalise the club’s commitment to mental health awareness and support.

The club also launched its own kit and shop in partnership with Epic Kits, giving players and supporters the chance to proudly wear the Headspace FC badge and help spread the message beyond the pitch.

At the same time, new links were formed with other like‑minded clubs, organisations, and individuals — strengthening the movement and creating a supportive network far beyond football.

Becoming a Community Interest Company

In June 2025, Headspace FC officially became a Community Interest Company (CIC), ensuring the project could continue to grow while staying true to its community‑focused values.

Links were made with mental health organisations including North Staffs Mind and Andy’s Man Club Stoke‑on‑Trent, helping raise awareness of the support available locally.

The community aspect continued to develop off the pitch too. Social nights were held at Kix FC in October and December 2025, giving people the chance to connect, socialise, and build friendships outside of football.

In September 2025, Headspace FC received funding from Sport England and the National Lottery, helping to support weekly sessions and expand mental health awareness across the region. This saw Headspace FC CIC move from one session per week to three sessions per week, by October 2025, with new sessions at Kings CE Academy in Kidsgrove and at Power League Trentham lakes. This enabled more opportunities for up to 60 people to participate per week.

The club also delivered a parent and child event in partnership with Stoke City FC Foundation, bringing families together for football activities followed by a memorable stadium tour.

Where We Are Today

Today, Headspace FC CIC provides three weekly football sessions for adults, using the game as a tool to support mental health and raise awareness of local services.

What started with just eight players has grown into a community of over 150 registered participants, all part of a welcoming, inclusive environment.

The community doesn’t stop with weekly sessions. Headspace FC continues to grow through partnerships with football clubs, companies, ambassadors, and mental health organisations across the city and beyond.

Looking Ahead to 2026

As we move into 2026, Headspace FC CIC is just getting started. Plans include:

• Providing more opportunities to join sessions through securing a new facility at Co‑op Florence MacWilliams Academy

• Delivering more social events

• Running additional parent and child events

• Linking with more mental health groups to raise awareness and support

• Organising and taking part in charity matches

Join Us

New players are always welcome — no matter your ability or experience.

Our weekly sessions take place:

Tuesday, 8–9pm – The King’s CE Academy, Kidsgrove

Thursday, 7:45–8:45pm – Co‑op Florence MacWilliams Academy

Sunday, 8–9pm – Powerleague, Trentham Lakes

Whether you’re returning to football or giving it a go for the first time, you’ll find a place at Headspace FC.

We’re incredibly thankful to everyone who has been part of the journey so far — and we can’t wait to see what comes next.