Aberdeen FC has become Scotland’s first professional football team to offer fans access to a mental health app.

Supporters can get support and guidance on mental health during the COVID‐19 crisis and beyond through the revolutionary NHS‐approved* app ‘Thrive’.

Working alongside AFC’s health and wellbeing partner, Health Shield, the Club will offer 10,000 free licences for the innovative, trusted app which provides proactive and preventative help to supporters during this challenging period.

With one in four people estimated to suffer from mental health issues as a result of COVID‐19, the intuitive ‘Thrive’ app takes users through a journey to assess, manage and improve their wellbeing with a range of mindfulness tips, tools and techniques.

Health Shield, who are committed to helping people lead healthier and more productive lives, has seen a number of organisations access the app, including a men’s mental health support group and NHS frontline workers.

Rob Wicks, AFC’s Commercial Director, is pleased to see the Club and one of its key partners leading the way in supporting mental health.

He said: “As a family Club with our fans at its heart, we quickly set about supporting the community through our #StillStandingFree campaign, including a mass outreach programme to our fans. The impact COVID‐19 is having on the most vulnerable in our community has become increasingly apparent.

“Many are having to adapt to a new way of life in lockdown, with new pressures and a sense of uncertainty so we are delighted to be the first Scottish football club to offer our supporters tangible support through access to the Thrive app which will equip them with the tools to stay healthy and positive during this uncertain period.”

Courtney Marsh, CEO at Health Shield, said: “As a not‐for‐profit organisation, we have a long and successful history of supporting our members and employees as well as the communities in which we live and work. Covid‐19 has brought challenges for many people, which is why we’re proud to partner with Thrive and Aberdeen FC to offer the club’s supporters free access to our mental wellbeing app to help keep them in the best of health during these difficult times.”

AFC supporters can find out more about Thrive by clicking here and following the simple steps to download the free app.