£25,000 boost for dementia support project
THE FUNDING, awarded through the Premier League and PFA Players’ Fund, will enable the Community Foundation to grow its successful 1927 Club project in partnership with the Cardiff City FC Former Players Association.
Named after Cardiff City’s historic FA Cup triumph in 1927, the 1927 Club offers a welcoming environment for people living with dementia, as well as their families and carers. The initiative uses football memories, social interaction and shared experiences to reduce isolation and improve wellbeing.
A distinctive feature of the programme is the active involvement of former Cardiff City players, who attend sessions not as celebrity guests but as participants, sharing stories, listening to supporters and helping foster a strong sense of community.
The project is led by Roger Gibbins through the Former Players Association, with former professionals including Tarki Micallef, Gary Bell, Jimmy Mullen, Dave Giles, Lee Jarman and Terry Boyle taking part.
The new funding will allow the scheme to expand across several local authority areas, delivering three weekly sessions over a 48-week period. Activities will be held in community venues including care homes and dementia cafés.
Organisers expect up to 270 participants to benefit from the programme, which combines reminiscence activities, gentle exercise and peer support in safe and inclusive settings.
The initiative reflects a shared commitment between Cardiff City FC Community Foundation, the Premier League and the Professional Footballers’ Association to use football as a force for good within local communities.
To mark the partnership, the Former Players Association welcomed Dawn Astle, founder of the Jeff Astle Foundation and daughter of former England striker Jeff Astle, to Cardiff City Stadium. She spoke about brain health and the importance of supporting current, former and future footballers.
The event brought together former players, club staff, Community Foundation representatives, partners, participants and carers to highlight football’s role in supporting people affected by dementia.
Zac Williams, Chief Executive Officer of Cardiff City FC Community Foundation, said: “We’re incredibly grateful to the Premier League and PFA Players’ Fund for supporting this important project and recognising the value former players can bring within our communities.
“The connection between former players and supporters is incredibly powerful. Through shared memories, conversations and experiences, the 1927 Club creates an environment where people feel valued, welcomed and part of something meaningful.
“This funding allows us to reach more individuals and families across South Wales, particularly within communities where traditional matchday or stadium-based activity may not always feel accessible for everyone.”
Roger Gibbins, who leads the Former Players Association, added: “As a former player, I believe the Former Players Association adds invaluable support to the 1927 Club. We can assist with activities, share memories from key eras and, most importantly, help fans reconnect through their shared love of football.
“The members and I are proud to play a part in this vital work in the community. We especially look forward to meeting the Bluebirds supporters who once cheered us on and reliving those special moments together.”
Lee Warren, Community Fund Manager at the Premier League Foundation, said the organisation was pleased to support the project.
“We are excited to be working with Cardiff City FC Community Foundation, supporting them to bring their application to life, positively impact beneficiaries and create greater connectivity between players and the communities they serve,” he said.
The expanded programme is expected to begin rolling out across South Wales during the coming months.
