Representatives of Slough Town FC in the Community joined forces with members of Young People With Dementia (YPWD) to deliver football sessions as part of Dementia Action Week activities. Last week marked Dementia Action Week , and we wanted to shine a light on some of the recent work being delivered within the local community to support people living with dementia.
Over the last five weeks, with the final session taking place during the week of action, two of the clubs community coaches have been working alongside a local group to provide football activities for people living with early onset of dementia. Community coach Scott McNeish and Community Manager Ade Gomm have been helping members of the group rediscover skills, stay active and most importantly enjoying themselves through football. The sessions focused on relearning football skills encouraging movement and mobility, and creating a welcoming and enjoyable environment for everyone involved.
Community Manager Ade Gomm said ‘When the charity reached outwit was an easy decision to make. All the members have an early diagnosis or onset of dementia yet every member haas coined in and thrown themselves into the activity . I have a personal experience of dementia as my late father suffered from the condition , so now it was my turn to give something back. What was more satisfying was to sit down with the group before and after the session and learn more about the illness and how we can support those diagnosed.”
We would like to place on record our thanks to YPWD and the Berks & Bucks FA for their support in helping the delivery of these sessions which are another example of the important role football can playing bringing people together, supporting wellbeing and making positive impact across the community.