A charity is using football to help support those diagnosed with or caring for someone with dementia.
The Alzheimer’s Society has partnered with the Birmingham County FA for a new referral scheme.
It is hoped it will allow players, coaches, referees and support staff from across the Midlands to access practical and emotional support from specialists.
Joe Robinson, from Birmingham County FA, said: “The partnership with Alzheimer’s Society will enable us to better support our employees, referees and those who coach or play when concerns are raised.
“Anyone involved with football across the county can be referred towards Alzheimer’s Society for memory assessments, further support and guidance.
“I became a Dementia Champion and wanted to lead on this programme to increase awareness so anyone across the West Midlands football sphere knows where to turn if they want guidance for themselves, a friend or relative.
“Having first-hand support is vital when navigating through the dementia journey, and Birmingham County FA are happy to be that first comforting and supportive contact for anyone within our football community.
“Not everyone with symptoms seeks a memory assessment or guidance soon enough, but we hope this acts as an extra pathway for people the area to step forward.
“Admitting you have concerns and seeking an assessment is daunting and often put-off for too long. But if a person’s first discussion is with Birmingham County FA in an environment that they already feel comfortable in, it may encourage or reassure them about the process.”
“Broaden the conversation about dementia”
Among those welcoming the initiative is Emma Ruscoe who saw her husband Simon diagnosed with young onset dementia in 2020.
She said: “Hopefully this new scheme will help broaden the conversation about dementia and challenge the idea that it only affects older people.
“Simon has young onset dementia a was diagnosed in his early fifties. The link with sport might make it easier for people to chat about their symptoms and get the help and support they need sooner.”
Simon who worked in IT, has been a lifelong Aston Villa supporter and finds his interest in sport gives him a positive focus and a lot to look forward to.
“When we get tickets, I still go to games at Villa Park,” he said. “I love the atmosphere football is just fantastic for me and I have always loved it.
“I don’t feel any different since my diagnosis. The crowd doesn’t have a negative effect on me. It’s just a big buzz.
“I’m still on a high after a game, even if we’ve lost. It’s brilliant and it makes me feel really good. I make sure I have a rest the day before as it does take a lot out of me, so it’s what we need to do for me to enjoy it.
“Having football in my life really helps me and gives me something to look forward to.”
For more details on the Alzheimer’s Society’s partnership with football organisations, visit alzheimers.org.uk/FA.