22.01.2025
Last year, Alliance Healthcare partnered with Mercedes-Benz Vans and ex-Sky Sports pundit Chris Kamara at the Vantasy Football tournament—a five-a-side event aimed at uniting van drivers and addressing mental health concerns.
The Summer tournament provided an essential platform for van drivers, who often face isolation on the road, to get together for a day of sport and offer them the opportunity to speak with other drivers who may have faced the same struggles. The Under the Bonnet report revealed that van drivers can spend up to 25 hours a week alone, with many engaging in only a handful of conversations daily. This event highlighted the urgent need for connection among these drivers.
Prior to the tournament, a team of Alliance Healthcare delivery drivers participated in a coaching session with Chris Kamara, fostering both football skills and open discussions about mental health. The tournament itself was filled with laughter and camaraderie, showcasing the role of sports in building community and supporting wellbeing.
Paul Graham, Senior Driver Team Manager, Alliance Healthcare UK, said: “Coming to an event like this gives us a chance to wind down, to get to know each other a bit more [so} we can open up. Over dinner we were talking about our mental health struggles with each other - the event has been really positive”
Check out the below video capturing the all the highlights and excitement from the tournament, which serves as a reminder that no one has to face their challenges alone. 👇