What is Sporting Memories?
Sporting Memories is a welcoming and inclusive programme that brings people together through a shared love of sport. The sessions provide an opportunity for older adults to reminisce about memorable sporting moments, favourite teams, sporting heroes, and local sporting history in a friendly and relaxed environment. The focus is on using the power of sport to spark conversation, connection, and positive memories.
The programme is particularly beneficial for older people, including those living with dementia, other long-term health conditions, or those experiencing loneliness and social isolation. Family members and carers are also welcome to take part, creating a supportive space where everyone can enjoy companionship and meaningful social interaction.
Bringing people together
Each session combines reminiscence activities with gentle, fun, and inclusive physical activities designed to encourage movement and improve wellbeing. Participants can enjoy sharing stories over a cup of tea and a biscuit while building new friendships with like-minded people who share a passion for sport.
Sporting Memories has been shown to support mental wellbeing by increasing social connections, boosting confidence, and helping participants remain active and engaged within their communities. Whether attendees are lifelong sports fans or simply looking to meet new people, everyone is welcomed and encouraged to get involved.
Freedom Leisure is proud to support activities that promote healthy ageing, community connection, and overall wellbeing. Sporting Memories offers a unique opportunity to celebrate the positive impact of sport beyond the playing field, helping people stay socially connected, physically active, and mentally stimulated in a friendly and enjoyable setting.
Alongside participating in sessions, individuals can also get involved as volunteers, helping to facilitate discussions, support activities, welcome new members, and share their own passion for sport. Volunteering with Sporting Memories is a rewarding way to give back to the community, develop new skills, and make a positive difference to the lives of older people who may be experiencing loneliness, isolation, or health challenges.
| Partnership Area | Volunteer Role | Role Description |
| Maidstone and Tenterden, Kent | Sporting Memories Group Facilitator | Sporting Memories Volunteers will help facilitate friendly and engaging group sessions for older adults, using sport as a way to spark conversation, reminiscence and connection. Volunteers will support the delivery of activities such as sharing sporting stories, quizzes, photographs and discussions, helping to create a welcoming and inclusive environment for all participants. The role involves encouraging conversation, supporting individuals who may be experiencing loneliness or memory challenges, and assisting staff with the smooth running of each session. No specialist sporting knowledge is required - just enthusiasm, patience and a willingness to help people connect through shared memories. |
Express your interest in our Sporting Memories programme by filling out the form below.
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