Clarke Carlisle

Former Premier League Footballer & Mental Health Advocate

  • Founder of The Clarke Carlisle Foundation for Dual Diagnosis
  • Award-Winning BBC Documentary Presenter
  • Former PFA Chairman

Clarke Carlisle is a renowned mental health speaker and advocate, leveraging his experiences as a former professional footballer and his journey with mental health to break down stigma and offer hope to others. Known for his articulate delivery and openness, Clarke addresses his battles with depression, addiction, and multiple suicide attempts, connecting deeply with audiences who find solace in his transparency. He has worked extensively in broadcasting, appearing as a pundit and commentator for ITV, Absolute Radio, and BT Sport, and he is a well-recognised face in British media. His authenticity and dedication to mental health have solidified his role as an influential speaker in the mental health sector.

Starting his career in football, Clarke debuted for Blackpool in 1997 and later moved to Queens Park Rangers, where he earned three caps for England’s under-21 team. Despite early successes, his journey wasn’t without obstacles; a posterior cruciate ligament injury almost ended his career in 2001, and he later dealt with addiction issues that disrupted his time at Queens Park Rangers. However, Clarke’s resilience brought him through these trials, allowing him to thrive with clubs like Burnley, with whom he achieved promotion to the Premier League in 2009. As he transitioned from football, Clarke moved into broadcasting and established himself as a public figure with a focus on mental health awareness and support.

In recent years, Clarke’s work has garnered significant acclaim. His documentaries for the BBC, such as Football’s Suicide Secret and Is Football Racist?, were pivotal in addressing mental health and inclusion issues in sport, sparking nationwide discussions. He founded The Clarke Carlisle Foundation for Dual Diagnosis, which supports individuals facing the dual challenges of mental health and addiction. His role as a former chairman of the Professional Footballers’ Association (PFA) and as an ambassador for Mind and the Kick It Out Campaign further underscores his commitment to advocating for mental health and equality within the sports industry and beyond.

Clarke is hired as a speaker for his profound understanding of mental health and his unique ability to articulate the complexities of personal struggle. His talks not only inspire but equip audiences with tools for self-care and resilience. With his deep knowledge of wellbeing and his executive experience on various boards, Clarke provides an authentic and impactful voice on mental health that resonates with corporate, educational, and public health audiences alike.

To enquire about Clarke Carlisle for your event or corporate function, simply contact us via agent@mentalhealthspeakers.co.uk or call a booking agent on 0203 9816 296.