The power of football for people living with dementia and family carers: a national picture
Parallel 6
18 November, 2026 3:30 – 4:40 pmCultivating Connections: Nature, Sports and Therapeutic Activity
Marie Poole
Senior Research Associate
Newcastle University
Nicky Taylor
Research Fellow
Leeds Beckett University
Summary
Football is at the heart of many communities and can bring a vital sense of belonging and identity for people living with dementia. Football organisations can provide community support for people living with dementia and their families, attracting men and people from socially disadvantaged communities.
Our team of experts by experience, national football organisations, dementia experts and researchers are working together to better understand how support is provided and how we can co-produce best practice resources for current and future providers.
We used mixed methods (interviews and online survey) with national organisations and football clubs/foundations from English professional football leagues. Findings highlight that activities are broad-ranging, providing social connection, physical activity, increased wellbeing, and reducing isolation. Staff require additional guidance, training and networking, and multi-agency collaboration is key to successful, consistent and sustainable provision. This research has significance for service commissioners, providers and people living with dementia and their families.