The FA & Alzheimer's Society partner to help people with dementia
August 13, 2021
The Alzheimer’s Society, recently appointed as The Football Association’s (FA) official charity partner, launched their partnership at The FA Community Shield between Leicester City and Manchester City on August 7 at Wembley Stadium, UK. Together, the organisations want to ensure that more people from the football community are aware of dementia, come forward for available support and are provided with the help that they need.
According to Alzheimer’s Society, there are 850,000 people living with dementia in the UK, which could fill the Wembley Stadium 10 times over. The population has been hit particularly hard by the pandemic and the challenges they face has worsened. Alzheimer's Society's services have been used more than 5.5m times since March 2020.
“With further research, early treatment and support, many people with dementia will be able to lead full and active lives. Together, we hope to make a significant difference to all those impacted by dementia and to ensure that the football community is aware of the signs, advice available and can access support when they need it," said Edleen John, director of international relations, corporate affairs and co-partner for equality, diversity and inclusion for The FA.
Over two years, the partners will:
• Raise awareness of dementia and the support services Alzheimer’s Society offers to help those living with dementia and to help end the stigma
• Raise money for Dementia Connect, Alzheimer’s Society’s personalized dementia support service
• Show how football clubs can be more dementia-friendly by ensuring that stadiums and grounds are accessible and staff understand the difficulties people encounter
• Enable local football clubs to refer employees, players, former players and fans to the Alzheimer’s Society’s support services so they can access the help that they need
• Offer their employees an opportunity to become a Dementia Friend and volunteer for the Alzheimer’s Society by helping people with dementia to keep connected over the phone
• Access leading scientists and research expertise to understand more about dementia’s causes and risk factors
Kate Lee, chief executive at Alzheimer’s Society said, "Following a catastrophic time for people with dementia, this is a massive opportunity to help support those who have never needed it more. Together, we can help ensure that the millions of football supporters and their families know our services are here, change how fans and players receive support and create a dementia inclusive industry, so people with dementia can continue to remain part of the game. Together, we can showcase the power of football to change lives for the better."
England players will support and be an active part of this partnership, including by donating to the charity from their match fees. In addition, an international fixture will be dedicated to Alzheimer’s Society and The FA will match any players’ contributions through funds raised from the Community Shield, as well as employee and external fundraising.
In addition, The FA’s partnership with Alzheimer’s Society will allow the charity to gain a prominent platform to use the power of football as a force for good to change lives for the better in the football community.