Tim Ream
Charlotte FC / USA National Team (USMNT)
TRANSFORMING MENTAL HEALTH THROUGH FOOTBALL
VSS (Virtual Soccer Schools) is a pioneering UK-based mental health charity making a global difference. We harness the power of football to inspire change – connecting elite footballers, world-class coaches, sports psychologists, and mental health professionals with educational organisations and communities worldwide to support young people.
Through immersive, state-of-the-art virtual technology, our early intervention programme challenges stigma, opens honest conversations, and equips young people with the tools to take charge of their mental well-being. By combining football with mental health education, VSS helps shape a stronger, more self-aware generation.
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MENTAL HEALTH MATTERS
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MENTAL HEALTH MATTERS
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MENTAL HEALTH MATTERS
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MENTAL HEALTH MATTERS
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MENTAL HEALTH MATTERS
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MENTAL HEALTH MATTERS
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MENTAL HEALTH MATTERS
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MENTAL HEALTH MATTERS
VSS MISSION & IMPACT
VSS (Virtual Soccer Schools) is redefining how youth mental health is supported globally. Founded in the UK, we combine the influence of elite footballers with mental health experts to deliver powerful virtual experiences. Since 2021, we’ve reached 90,000 young people through 200 events in 83 countries featuring 71 elite players. Our inclusive, tech-led approach breaks stigma and builds resilience. In the UK, 1 in 5 children had a probable mental disorder in 2023. Globally, 1 in 7 adolescents faces similar challenges. The VSS Mental Health XI responds by normalising conversations and equipping young people to prioritise mental well-being.
71
ELITE PLAYERS AND MANAGERS
90,000
YOUNG PEOPLE
5,000
EDUCATIONAL ORGANISATIONS
200
VIRTUAL EVENTS
83
COUNTRIES
FUNDERS & SPONSORS
At VSS, we believe in the power of partnership to create meaningful, lasting change. Our funders and sponsors play a vital role in helping us reach and uplift the next generation through the power of football and mental health education. By supporting our mission, you’re not just funding a programme — you’re investing in brighter futures, breaking stigma, and empowering young minds worldwide. Join us in shaping resilient communities, inspiring hope, and leaving a legacy of impact. Together, we can transform lives and change the game for good.
IMPACTFUL EDUCATIONAL AWE INSPIRING
VSS Mental Health XI
The VSS Mental Health XI is a player-led advisory group made up of a squad of passionate football voices, all championing VSS’s mission to support the mental health of the next generation. It includes: Premier League Stars, WSL professionals, International players, Managers, coaches, and footballing legends.
This board serves as the heartbeat of VSS – helping shape strategy, sharing lived experiences, as well as using their platforms to inspire and uplift young people around the world.
Chris Richards
Crystal Palace FC / USA National Team (USMNT)
Asmir Begovic
Premier League Legend
Thomas Vermaelen
Football Legend
Bruno Saltor
West Ham United FC
Calvin Bassey
Fulham FC
Josh King
Fulham FC
Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall
Everton FC
Lucy Staniforth
Aston Villa W.F.C.
Martha Thomas
Tottenham Hotspur W.F.C.
Willy Caballero
Chelsea FC
CONNECTING FOOTBALL TO EMPOWER MINDS
At VSS, we empower, inspire, and educate the next generation with the mental tools and life skills they need to thrive in today’s world. By breaking down barriers and driving change, we help young people build resilience, believe in themselves, and find their voice because a strong mind is the foundation of a brighter, better future for all.
INNOVATION MEETS MEASURABLE IMPACT
Elite footballers inspire and engage youth in live, immersive, and interactive virtual sessions to explore resilience, confidence, pressure, and mental health. In partnership with the award-winning Amazing People Schools, these inclusive, assembly-style events are backed by wraparound learning resources that build empathy, teamwork, creativity, and kindness – skills proven to support mental well-being. Accessible and impactful, the VSS Programme embeds character development and inspirational role models into education, empowering the next generation to champion their mental health.
