Will Vaulks faced a nervous moment before addressing attendees at the Kassam Stadium on Tuesday evening.

The occasion marked a significant mental health awareness initiative, drawing 150 people to the OX4 venue.

Oxford United’s delegation included several notable figures: Stan Mills, Michal Helik, Mark Harris, head coach Matt Bloomfield, and chief executive Tim Williams were among those present.

The midfielder acknowledged pre-speech nerves, noting the challenge of speaking in front of teammates who observe his daily football activities.

He credited his colleagues for their support, noting that the evening would reveal aspects of his personality not typically visible on the pitch.

Ryan Maher, Oxford United’s head of public relations and media, opened proceedings with reflections on a friend’s personal battle with mental health challenges.

Mike McCarthy, founder of the Baton of Hope charity established to prevent suicide through proactive intervention, then explained the organisation’s origins and mission.

McCarthy offered commendation of Oxford United’s pioneering efforts before presenting Vaulks.

Vaulks has dedicated considerable effort throughout the current year to mental health initiatives, delivering presentations at schools throughout Oxfordshire.

The 32-year-old’s commitment stems from personal tragedy, having lost both grandfathers to suicide during his teenage years.

The loss prompted his involvement in suicide prevention work.

Throughout his professional journey, Vaulks has encountered various circumstances including feelings of isolation while playing for Falkirk in Scotland, securing his breakthrough opportunity at Cardiff City, and experiencing the heartbreak of a seemingly decisive goal at Wembley for Sheffield Wednesday being disallowed for offside.

During his time at Rotherham, the former Wales international initially volunteered at a hospice, an experience that shifted his perspective on concerns beyond football results.

Ben Wilson, clinical director of Baton of Hope, concluded the formal proceedings before opening a question and answer session.

Attendees responded enthusiastically, with one gentleman describing a men’s mental health support group he had established elsewhere in Oxfordshire.

The evening represented an initial step as Oxford United and Vaulks continue their community outreach efforts.