THEY say it’s the universal language, now football aims to unite sides and combat the homeless stereotype.

The first-ever Oxford Social Inclusion Cup will bring together dozens of football teams, many of them made up of homeless players.

It celebrates World Homeless Day and World Mental Health Day, and will promote awareness of both issues.

Organiser Jon Regler, founder of Oxford-based team Streets Revolution, said: “Many people who are homeless or suffer with mental illness are labelled by society and are often marginalised.

“But to excuse the pun, when they play football, it’s an equal playing field. It doesn’t matter who they are or where they’ve come from.

“They pull on a strip and for that game, that’s all they are.

“So we’re bringing people together who have a love of football.”

The theme of the six-a-side tournament on October 10 is ‘more than words’ and 17 teams have already signed up.

They come from a variety of backgrounds, including two Oxfordshire homeless teams and a side from Thames Valley Police.

The tournament was funded by an anti-stigma mental health grant from Oxfordshire Primary Care Trust.

There will also be stalls and information stands on the day to let people know about services available to them.

Three years ago, 41-year-old Darren Gregory was homeless and suffering with depression.

He said: “I lost everything that I had in my life, I even lost who I was.

“I had no confidence, no social life, no friends. My life was empty.”

Then he joined the Coasters Football Club, based in Blackbird Leys, after a kick-around at a shelter.

He said: “I loved it and everyone said how good I was, but I thought they were just saying that.

“Then more comments started coming. I was hearing positive things which put me on a high and I started believing again. My confidence grew.

“I’m not hiding away in the corner because I’m worried about what people think and say about being homeless and having a mental health issue any more.”

He now has a home and has recovered from depression.

He added: “Most of all I’ve found myself and I’m back.”

The tournament will run from 10am until 5pm at the Warneford Hospital in Headington. Entrance is free and participants must be aged 16 and over.

Organisers are also looking for donations of items which could be put into “goodie bags” and refreshments to serve on the day.

To enter a team or donate items contact Mr Regler on 07713 333359 or info.osic@gmx.com