National Football Museum inspires football fans in social care

FOOTBALL fans supported by national social care charity Community Integrated Care shared their passion for the sport during an exclusive online event with the National Football Museum.

The session, hosted on the charity’s platform ‘What To Do’ (www.What-To-Do.co.uk) was led by the museum’s Participation Producer Louise Rutherford, who presented important objects from football’s history. Participants learned about England’s historic 1966 World Cup win through a replica of the iconic Jules Rimet Trophy, as well as the early histories of both the men’s and women’s games through shirts and balls.

Sharing experiences, football trivia and even taking part in a football chant, the event connected fans with learning disabilities from across the UK, giving an accessible insight into what’s on offer at the National Football Museum headquarters in Manchester city centre.

Developed by Community Integrated Care, ‘What To Do’ supports the charity’s ‘Best Lives Possible’ mission of going beyond care to enable people to follow their passions and fulfil their aspirations. Through an eclectic programme of online experiences, people who access care and support can join free, virtual events every week, in partnership with a mix of high-quality facilitators.

The platform received the prestigious ‘Best Initiative’ award at the 2022 National Care Awards for its impact and innovation and has facilitated many once-in-a-lifetime moments. Special guests have included FC Barcelona’s Ilkay Gundogan, Liverpool FC Women’s star Gemma Bonner, British Paralympic Table Tennis star Jack Hunter-Spivey, and Strictly Come Dancing Stars Vincent Simone and Ian Waite.

Nigel Redmayne, who is supported by Community Integrated Care and joined the experience said:

“I loved seeing the old football shirts and balls that they used to play with, which got heavy in the rain. It reminded me of playing football growing up with my friends. It was really interesting, and I learned so many new things about football’s past.”

Lewis Webster, Sports Inclusion Communications Manager at Community Integrated Care, said:

“We were thrilled to work alongside the world’s biggest football museum and provide such an engaging and accessible learning experience for football enthusiasts.

“Seeing people wearing the colours of their teams with pride while sharing tales of personal matchday memories, and singing along to FA Cup Finals anthems of yesteryear was a joy to behold.  We’re immensely grateful for Louise’s support in providing such a meaningful, inclusive opportunity.”