A group of students from Shireland Biomedical UTC recently had a unique opportunity to connect with West Bromwich Albion fans living with Alzheimer’s and dementia during an exclusive tour of The Hawthorns, the club’s iconic stadium.
The students spent a poignant part of their visit meeting members of the Memories Group, a special initiative run by West Bromwich Albion and supported by The Albion Foundation. This group is designed for fans living with Alzheimer’s, dementia, and other cognitive challenges, offering individuals the chance to stay connected to the club and relive cherished memories through social activities and regular meet-ups.
During their time with the group, students listened to heartfelt stories from members about their long-standing loyalty to the club and how football has shaped their lives. Many members shared vivid recollections of watching games and historic matches with family and friends in their younger years. Despite the challenges of living with dementia, these fans’ passion for the club remains undiminished, leaving students captivated by their powerful, heart warming stories.
Moved by the interaction, students asked thoughtful questions, eager to understand the experiences of those in the Memories Group and the impact of dementia and other cognitive difficulties on individuals. The experience deepened their appreciation of mental health and cognitive conditions, as well as the role football and cherished memories can play in providing comfort, joy and a sense of identity for those affected.
The visit also included a full guided tour of The Hawthorns, where the students explored key areas of the stadium, including the dressing rooms, press box, ticket office, and players’ tunnel. This behind-the-scenes experience provided a deeper connection to the club’s heritage and underscored the vital role that football plays in community and wellbeing.
After the tour, the students returned to Shireland Biomedical UTC for an afternoon of team-building activities, designed to foster collaboration and reinforce the importance of working together.
Gulfam Shahzad, Principal at Shireland Biomedical UTC, said: “This trip was much more than just a stadium tour; it was a valuable opportunity for our students to connect with members of our community who have played an integral role in the club’s history.
“Through the Memories Group, our students engaged with powerful, poignant stories that deepened their understanding of how memories shape lives and foster meaningful connections, even in the face of Alzheimer’s and dementia. This experience highlighted the importance of empathy, connection, and community, and reflects our commitment to providing real-world learning opportunities that extend beyond the classroom.”
The experience provided an invaluable insight into dementia care, demonstrating the significant role sports can play in supporting mental health, and was a testament to Shireland Biomedical UTC’s commitment to combining academic learning with real-world experiences.
