FOOTBALL is proving to be a way forward for residents of a scheme for people with learning disabilities and mental health problems.

Bostall House in Lodge Hill, Abbey Wood, on the site of the former Goldie Leigh Hospital, has teamed up with Charlton Athletic’s community trust to improve patients’ confidence, social skills and fitness.

Two patients with a natural footballing talent have been signed up to weekly football sessions run by the Addicks’ mental health programme and are already showing progress.

Adam Cavell from Bostall House, which is run by St Luke’s Healthcare, said: “The team at Bostall House is always on the look out for exciting opportunities for our patients to be active and build their skill sets in the local community.

"We already have strong links with local colleges and employers, and when the opportunity came up to work with The Addicks we jumped at it."

He added “Participating in this scheme with Charlton is a great way for our clients to get more involved in the community; to meet new people from different backgrounds and acquire a greater sense of purpose.

“We are already seeing amazing results.

“Our clients are happier and have a broader outlook on what they can achieve.”

Barry Simmons disability manager for the trust said: "They have got involved with an activity at Charlton that really engages them.

"It’s fantastic to see how their enthusiasm for football is having a direct positive impact across their lives, and to watch them build a strong social network with other players from the group.”