Views

Going for glory – Sporting Memories Wales nominated for award

Across Wales, we have over 20 Clubs running regular sessions supporting hundreds of older people to reconnect with sport as well as their local communities through Sporting Memories.

Our work in the region has been recognised through the Welsh Charity Awards, where Sporting Memories Wales have been shortlisted in the Health and Wellbeing category.

Ahead of the awards, taking place on 25 November, we caught up with Rob Baker (far left), Project Coordinator for Sporting Memories Wales, to detail some of the work we’re doing in the region and the effect it is having on Club members.

Our impact in Wales

Our Clubs have been running in Wales for over five years, delivering regular sessions to older people in communities which not only engage our members through sporting chat and activity, but also helping them to tackle some of the challenges of life, as Rob explained:

“We’re thrilled to be nominated for the Health and Wellbeing category in the Welsh Charity Awards 2024. Through our blend of inclusive reminiscence and physical activities, we are changing the lives of Club members to be more engaged and active locally across Wales. We believe this is particularly important during this time, when older people services are facing financial difficulties and cuts across the board.

“We have members who come from a wide range of backgrounds and life-stories, and that all comes through in the conversations and activities we have during our sessions. Whether it’s living with dementia, or living in isolation and loneliness, we can help bring people together for the benefit of themselves and their loved ones.”

Thanking our Welsh volunteers

Our Clubs in Wales are predominantly run by volunteers who give up their time to support their groups on a weekly basis. Rob was quick to recognise that being shortlisted for the Welsh Charity Awards was thanks to the heroic efforts of our volunteers.

“Without the support of our volunteers, we wouldn’t be able to run Sporting Memories over so many Clubs across Wales. Whether it’s the likes of Peter and Paul in Penarth, Jane at the Rumney Hub, or Stephen and John at Pontypridd to name but a few, they all make a huge difference with their enthusiasm and commitment to Sporting Memories.

“They are always on hand to provide a warm welcome, get the conversation going and support those who might just be starting on their time at the Club or have been there years. Without that generosity of spirit, we wouldn’t have so many members who benefit from their time with us.”

Could you help Sporting Memories Wales?

Ahead of the awards ceremony, Rob was also urged anyone who is interested in finding out more about Sporting Memories in Wales, whether it be as a new member, volunteer or looking to partner with them, to get in touch.

“There is so much potential for growth in Sporting Memories across Wales. We have a number of Clubs ready to be set-up, but we need the people power and the funding to make new Clubs a reality.

“It’s about providing something in local communities that can deliver a positive impact on the mental and physical wellbeing of older people. We know from our Clubs that are running in Wales that we do achieve this in the long-term, so I’d encourage anyone who can help us – be it coming along to a session or helping to pay for the teas and coffees - to get in touch.”

Rob can be reached via his email at rob.baker@sportingmemories.uk or via 07515 916 305