Oxford United’s Will Vaulks recognised by for community work

This is in recognition of his significant efforts in suicide prevention across Oxfordshire.

Mr Vaulks has been a key figure in the club’s ‘Can We Talk?’ campaign, which was launched in October 2024 to address suicide, the leading cause of death for people under 35 in the UK.

Throughout the 2025/26 season, the campaign has expanded, reaching schools, workplaces, army bases, and universities in the county with vital workshops.

In March, the initiative, in partnership with suicide prevention charity Baton of Hope, held a workshop at the Kassam Stadium attended by 150 people.

The participants received essential training to support ongoing awareness and education.

The campaign’s key initiatives include suicide prevention and mental health workshops for supporters, accredited training for staff and players, and the introduction of a wellbeing ‘check-in’ app for club staff.

Oxford United said: “Oxford United congratulates Will on this well-deserved honour and is proud to stand alongside him in advancing mental health awareness and suicide prevention.”

Mr Vaulks will be honoured at an awards event at the House of Commons on Wednesday, April 15.

He also hosted a suicide prevention event at the Kassam Stadium on Tuesday, March 17, from 6pm to 7.30pm.

The workshop forms part of the ‘Can We Talk?’ campaign and aims to further tackle the issue of suicide.

Mr Vaulks has become one of the prominent voices in the Football League advocating for suicide awareness.