Thanks to the EFL in the Community, Community Fund, Watford FC’s Community Sports and Education Trust will deliver the REACT programme and support over 55s across the local community.
REACT (REtirement in ACTion), is a group-based exercise programme proven to support people to improve and maintain their mobility and ability to live independently.
The REACT programme was developed in response to a pressing and growing public health challenge: the decline in physical function and independence among older adults. According to the Office for National Statistics, one in five people in the UK are currently aged 65 or over, and by 2050 this will rise to one in four.
The free programme combines exercise, education and social activities that are designed for older adults who are beginning to show age-related mobility decline. Through a cost-effective real world intervention, older adults will develop positive physical activity behaviours and habits and form lasting social connections.
Originally piloted by the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR), this new funding from EFL in the Community will scale up the REACT programme and utilise the power of football to reach adults who would otherwise not engage in the programme.
Wigan Athletic Community Trust, Bolton Wanderers in the Community, Bristol City Robins Foundation, Bristol Rovers Community Trust, QPR in the Community, Stevenage FC Foundation and Watford FC’s Community Sports and Education Trust will be the first seven EFL Club Charities to deliver the programme, enhancing their already impactful work across their local communities.
Hannah Marsh, Head of Health & Wellbeing at Watford FC’s Community Sports and Education Trust said:
“As a Trust, bringing people together is central to the work we do, and the REACT programme is a fantastic opportunity to do just that. Through initiatives like this, we can support older adults in our community to stay active, connect with others and experience the positive impact of being part of a welcoming and supportive environment.”
EFL in the Community’s Director of Community, Debbie Cook, said:
“EFL Clubs are at the heart of their communities and the charities associated with our Clubs are changing lives together 365 days a year.
“We were delighted to announce this funding during the EFL’s Week of Action. It aims to tackle some of the key challenges facing our country and highlights that our Clubs are well placed to reach out to the people of their communities and engage with them in a way that many organisations cannot.”
Professor Afroditi Stathi, Chief Investigator of REACT at the University of Birmingham, said:
“I am excited that REACT will now be delivered through EFL in the Community, bringing this evidence-based programme into spaces where men, in particular, feel a strong sense of belonging – their football clubs.
“This expansion means more people can stay mobile, independent, and socially connected, while strengthening the community spirit that football represents.”
For more information about the project and how to get involved, please contact the Health & Wellbeing team at fallsprevention@watfordfctrust.com or call 01923 496292.