In his documentary Changing the Game for Young Men, Gareth Southgate reveals his uncertainty after leaving the England football manager role. Many hoped he would enter politics, but instead he addresses issues facing young males in Britain. The film is well-meaning but frustratingly limited.
Heartfelt Encounters in Middlesbrough
Southgate returns to Middlesbrough, where he witnessed post-industrial decline. He meets three unemployed men aged 19 and 20, who face hundreds of applicants per vacancy and rarely receive feedback. One admits to overcoming suicidal thoughts. Southgate offers encouragement, saying, "You've got to give yourselves the best possible chance." He draws on his own setbacks to inspire hope.
Schools and Mentorship
Southgate observes that struggling boys are often dismissed as troublemakers. He advocates for more vocational training and male mentors. He participates in a school program where male teachers help boys discuss emotions. However, the documentary overlooks how austerity and underfunding limit such initiatives.
Grassroots Solutions
The film ends on a positive note: one of the Middlesbrough men volunteers with a community environmental project. Southgate also encourages men to volunteer with local hero Dan Gaze, whose after-school programs keep boys engaged. While these small efforts help, the underlying political causes remain unaddressed.
Southgate proves skilled at television, blending narration and interviews. His potential second career as a social cohesion ambassador seems fitting, but the documentary leaves viewers wanting more systemic change.
Gareth Southgate: Changing the Game for Young Men aired on BBC One and is on iPlayer. For support, contact Samaritans (UK) at 116 123, Lifeline (Australia) at 13 11 14, or other international helplines.
