VIKINGS IN THE COMMUNITY Heritage project a boost for the golden generation

APROJECT which uses the heritage of Widnes Vikings to tackle loneliness and isolation in older people is a year old.

The Vikings launched the Golden Generation initiative in partnership with NHS Halton Clinical Commissioning Group in August 2015.

The group meets every Friday from 2.30pm at the Select Security Stadium.

Each session starts with a walk of up to a mile around the i-pitch before having refreshments in the stadium’s Steppingstone Lounge.

A report by Independent Age and the ILC UK stated that loneliness and isolation has become a ‘serious issue’ nationwide, with a ‘significant proportion’ of the older generation relying on television for their only source of company.

Through the partnership with NHS Halton CCG, the Vikings have opened their doors to allow older generation of fans to come together through a shared interest.

Vikings community integrated director Richard Munson said: “As a club, we are proud to support older people through our Golden Generation scheme and are delighted with the way it has grown over the last year.

“As a scheme it is really simple, it’s an open invite to local people to come and reminiscence about yesteryear with ex-player speakers, current players, and like-minded individuals who share a love of Widnes Vikings.

“We are really pleased at the new friendships that have emerged and formed a real social network for the individuals.”

Regular attendees have had their say on what the Golden Generation project means to them.

Mavis Smith said: “I think most importantly though is companionship especially for older people living alone.

“I enjoy having the mind exercised listening intently to the speakers and exercising walking around the pitch. Most importantly though its good to have plenty of laughs. As the saying goes, A good laugh is better than a tonic.”

Bill Griffiths said that a key part of Golden Generation was ‘meeting like- minded people’ who have now become friends.

He added: “It helps to keep the stress at bay and it makes me feel part of Widnes Vikings.”

Gillian and Gary Thomas said that one of the benefits of Golden Generation is learning different aspects about their health with people from the NHS.

They said: “This saw us have a full health check at the stadium earlier this year.”

Denis Thomas added: “The main feature for me of the Golden Generation has been friendship.

“It’s surprising how close the group has become over the months. We get on so well with each and I’ve loved to meet new people as the sessions progress.”

The session is open for new members to join every Friday from 2.30pm.

Those who wish to attend can meet in the Select Security Stadium’s reception.

For more information email jameso@widnesvikings.co.uk or call 0151 495 2250.