According to the Royal College of Psychiatrists, 5,000,000 older people experience depression. In Blackpool, this is highlighted within the Blackpool JSNA, which states that “amongst the over 65s the two most common mental health problems are depression and dementia.” The report also states that “social isolation is a recognised risk factor for poor mental health and is experienced by one million older people in the UK. Strengthening positive relationships in later life will help to promote mental health and wellbeing for all of us.”
Recently, Blackpool FC Community Trust launched their Sporting Memories group that aims to address these challenges in a fun and informal manner through a weekly group that takes place at the stadium every Thursday from 1 until 2.30pm, which is aimed at older sports fans and covers sporting topics of conversation, but primarily around football and Blackpool FC.
This programme has been made possible through funding from The Royal British Legion, which is a project that involves three Football Club Community Trusts, which are: Plymouth Argyle, Derby County, and Blackpool FC Community Trust’s. We are therefore delighted that Derby County will be bringing their Sporting Memories group to Bloomfield Road on Thursday 19th April to take part in a joint session that will look at the links and history that exist between the two clubs. We will also have our photo taken pitch side.
For more information on any activity that the Community Trust deliver, contact us on 01253 348691, email office@bfcct.co.uk,
