MEET OUR TEAM

Headspace FC CIC was first founded in 2024 by brothers, Kenny Bartonshaw and Cliff Barton and became a Community Interest Company in June 2025.

Kenny Bartonshaw

Cliff Barton

Kenny is an Assistant Principal at a Primary School in Stoke-on-Trent where he also leads in sharing and training others in ways to use technology in the classroom as a UK and Europe innovator for Adobe Express. Before becoming a teacher, he worked as a Teaching Assistant supporting pupils with SEND in primary and secondary education. Prior to working in education, Kenny worked as a Coach for Stoke City FC Community Programme, leading on many initiatives to develop players for the future, as well as undertaking coaching and education roles for West Bromwich Albion's Albion Foundation and Stafford Rangers FC in the Community.

Cliff is a Teaching Assistant at a Primary School in Sandbach. Prior to this role, Cliff worked in other schools in Stoke-on-Trent and Cheshire teaching PE and supporting children with SEND. He has also worked as a Positive Behaviour Facilitator in a care setting for adults. Prior to these roles, Cliff worked as a Football coach for Stoke City FC Community Programme, delivering PE lessons and other initiatives across Stoke-on-Trent as well as developing players for the future.

"We founded to provide an opportunity for people to come together in a safe space to talk, exercise and take a break from the daily demands of life. Football has always played a key role in our lives and been our safe "headspace" whether that's been playing it from being kids, coaching it or just watching a game, it has always provided us with opportunities to make vital connections, the chance to talk, reflect and breathe.

We have both had times where our mental health has been affected whether that's by a loss of a loved one, anxiety or depression around work or changing life circumstances. Thankfully we have always had someone to talk and turn to for support but unfortunately we also have experienced when someone suffers in silence and doesn't feel that they could talk to someone.

Through Headspace FC's partnership with Man Time and North Staffs Mind we hope to raise awareness of mental health and the support that is there when needed. We want to tackle the stigma around men's mental wellbeing by providing a positive platform and developing a community for opportunities for people to connect and support one another."

Founder & Director

Founder & Director

Zac Ball

Director and facilitator

Nathan Dunne

Volunteer facilitator

Zac is a joiner and owns Zac Ball Joinery which is based in Stoke on Trent. He has over 20 years of experience in the joinery trade and his company provide a wide range of services from joinery needs to kitchen and bathroom fitting to house renovations.

Zac first joined Headspace FC in April 2024 when it was a small group weekly kick about. Following discussions with Kenny and Cliff, Zac decided to become a co director to help form Headspace FC CIC.

Nathan currently works in facilities for a branch of schools across Stoke-on-Trent. Prior to this, he has worked in industries such as people management and the Police. Nathan also has 3 young sons and coaches their under 8's team.

Nathan first joined Headspace FC in May 2024 whilst the group was a small weekly kick about. Nathan regularly volunteers to help run and organise the weekly sessions. Nathan's support in running the sessions has been vital in helping Headspace FC CIC support more people.

"I’ve been fortunate enough to witness the growth of Headspace FC from its inception to its current state. I support them behind the scenes, as it’s rewarding to contribute to a community that gives back. Headspace FC offers a welcoming environment for men and women to play football, unwind, and connect.

I’ve enjoyed rediscovering football, improving my fitness, and meeting new people. As a busy father of three, I value the weekly ‘Me’ time I get playing football. It benefits me physically, mentally, and socially. Headspace FC accommodates all ages and abilities, allowing players to join as frequently as they like.

I’m proud of Headspace FC’s achievements and eagerly anticipate its future prospects."

"I became a director of Headspace FC CIC because I’ve personally experienced the positive impact its weekly sessions have on mental health and wellbeing. They’ve given me the chance to unwind, focus on myself, and meet new people while enjoying football in a supportive environment.

The sessions have offered me valuable weekly ‘Me’ time, improving both my physical and mental health. I’ve rediscovered my love for the game, built new friendships, and seen how the community Headspace FC fosters makes a real difference.

Supporting Headspace FC CIC as a director allows me to give back to a project I believe in, helping it continue to support others as it has supported me."