New dementia cafe launched by Walsall FC

A new community initiative to help support people living with dementia has been launched by Walsall FC.

Former Walsall manager Chris Nicholl shares a joke with Pat Roberts and Claire Whittaker, both from Accord, at the launch of the dementia cafe at Walsall FC

The club has launched a brand new monthly Dementia Cafe at the Banks's Stadium which aims to focus on football memories.

The new cafe was officially opened by former Walsall manager Chris Nicholl , who met the participants and staff, as well as looking through some of the Saddlers memorabilia on show.

The 73-year-old has been living with dementia and his plight was highlighted as part of Alan Shearer’s ‘Football, Dementia and Me’ BBC documentary in 2017.

WALSALL COPYRIGHT EXPRESS&STAR TIM THURSFIELD- 05/03/20.Former Saddlers manager Chris Nicholl who has dementia, officially opened the dementia cafe at Walsall FC, which will be based in the community room..He is pictured joking with Pat Roberts and Claire Whittaker, both from Accord, and Chris Springthorpe, health officer at Walsall FC..

He was made to feel welcome by everyone in attendance, with Chris Springthorpe, Health Officer for the Community Programme, talking about the potential of the initiative.

He said: "The launch of our café brought together families living with dementia, the club and external partners.

"It was great to have Chris Nicholl attend, and open, the café and the atmosphere was buoyant all afternoon.

"I am relishing the challenge of growing the café, over the period of the pilot sessions, and ensure that it is sustainable on an ongoing basis.

The former Walsall manager, who has dementia, is pictured with Chris Springthorpe, health officer at Walsall FC and Darren Newton from Accord..

"That will mean that we are able to support football fans and families that are living with dementia."

The initiative is being run by Walsall FC Community Programme in partnership with Accord Age Matters and Birmingham County FC.

It will take place with six two-hour sessions on the first Thursday of the month, taking place in the Walsall FC Community Room.

Phil Roberts and dad Dave at the launch of the dementia cafe

Walsall fan Phil Roberts was among the first to attend the cafe with his father David and spoke warmly about the creation of the cafe.

He said: "We found out about eight months ago that my dad was diagnosed with dementia and to be honest the only thing he talks about is Walsall Football Club.

"He carries his season ticket around with him day and night and he’s been a season ticket holder for 65 years plus.

"Talking to him and hearing the memories that he shares is nice, and so is bringing him here and mixing with people that can talk about football with him."

The next session takes place on Thursday, April 2. To find out more and to register, email chris.springthorpe@walsallfc.co.uk.