Age-Friendly Project

The National Football Museum uses the power of football to support wellbeing in older people.

The programmes developed from the Memories of 66 Project which used our 1966 exhibition as a stimulus for reminiscence work. Working in partnership with Sporting Memories Network, the museum established sporting memories groups, gathered memories and provided training for health and social care staff across Greater Manchester.

By bringing people together to share their memories and stories around the beautiful game, we aim to capture vital moments in history and use football to connect people.

Age-Friendly Programme

The Museum runs a Sporting Memories group every fortnight. Members can chat, reminisce and swap stories about all things football, be it about their first visit to a football ground, the contrasting styles of boots and shirts, or the great teams and players of their eras. This session is free to all older people and is a great way to meet other older fans over a brew and a biscuit.

Click here to see the latest dates and times for our Sporting Memories group sessions.

The museum also runs memory tours of our Level 1 space, exploring our prized collections through conversation, storytelling and object handling. We have also worked with external partners, such as Manchester FA, to encourage social, stimulating activities such as walking football.

Wellbeing and Dementia Support programme

Football Memories Project

The Football Memories reminiscence programme is for older people and those living with dementia.

The programme consists of museum memory tours and outreach activities in community and residential care settings. Reminiscence can support wellbeing and tackle social isolation. Many people living with dementia may have short term memory problems, but often long term memory is preserved. Football reminiscence sessions provide opportunities for participants to share memories, connect with those around them and maintain social connections.

Our Football Memories group meets fortnightly on Wednesdays between 1:30 and 3pm.

Click here to see the full list of dates for our Football Memories group sessions.

Storybox Project

Storybox at the National Football Museum is a brand-new creative workshop designed especially for people living with dementia.

Storybox is a unique intervention developed by Small Things Creative Projects which uses imagination and creativity to engage, empower and enliven those living with a dementia. The approach does not focus on reminiscence but is a celebration of the moment. Central to the approach is the belief that everyone should have the chance to be creative and try new things and that creative participation can enhance wellbeing.

We offer an hour- long workshop which takes participants on an imaginative journey inspired by all things football. Workshops have been delivered in care homes and hospitals across Manchester.

For further information please contact:

Louise Rutherford, Programme Co-ordinator
louise.rutherford@nationalfootballmuseum.com