England vs Australia Football Friendly Raises Alzheimer’s Awareness

April 14, 2023

In a show of solidarity and support for the UK Alzheimer’s Society, a third of the players in this past Tuesday’s England vs Australia friendly wore nameless shirts to raise awareness on dementia. The Lionesses and Matilda's match before the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup in Australia and New Zealand was dedicated as an ‘Alzheimer’s Society International’ to draw attention to the devastating impact of the disease.

One in three people born in the UK today will develop dementia over their lifetime. The nameless shirts worn by the players was an effort to raise awareness of this staggering fact and the impact of the disease on the lives of those who suffer from it. Different players work the shirts during the second half to represent the confusion and memory loss often experienced by those living with dementia. After the match the shirts were auctioned off with proceeds going to the Alzheimer’s Society.

The hashtag #TheForgottenThird was used to encourage fans to engage with the initiative, and Alzheimer’s Society CEO Kate Lee hopes that the player's efforts will help to shine a light on the devastating impact of dementia. The organisation describes the disease as "a set of symptoms that over time can affect memory, problem-solving, language and behaviour,” with Alzheimer’s disease being the most common form.

“We hope by making this simple alternation with this gesture and getting both teams to show a sign of solidarity, we can put an important spotlight on just how much dementia can devastate lives,” Lee said. “I hope it makes a massive impact from the stands to screens, inspiring people to donate so we can reach even more people with our life-changing support, which helps people through some of the hardest and most frightening times.”

The match was hosted at Brentford's GTech Community Stadium and a portion of the proceeds will be used to fund life-changing support for those currently suffering from dementia and those who may be affected by it in the future.

Before the game, three players from each team lined up for the customary pre-match photographs with their back turned to the camera to show their nameless shirts. This act helped to bring attention to the critical cause and fans were encouraged to show their support through donations and social media engagement.

The England vs Australia friendly was a highly anticipated match between two of the leading teams in women's football. The nameless shirts worn by the players added a powerful message of solidarity and support to the match, highlighting the impact the disease can have on individuals, families and communities.

The Alzheimer's Society is dedicated to providing vital support and assistance to those affected by dementia, including research into potential treatments and cures for the disease. The charity's work is essential in helping those living with dementia to live fulfilling and meaningful lives.