The Football Memories project was piloted in 2008, with Aberdeen FC being one of the founding members together with the Scottish Football Museum, Alzheimer Scotland, Hibernian FC and Falkirk FC. Prior to the Covid-19 pandemic the project had expanded to over 300 groups meeting regularly across Scotland, including weekly at Pittodrie Stadium and was recognised as being world‐leading!

The project aims to support those living with Dementia but also support those affected by social isolation, loneliness, mental health issues and other conditions. Together in a relaxed and welcoming environment participants share memories and personal stories, meet new friends and have fun! Staff and volunteers use programmes, books, photos, newspapers, film clips, memory box and other memorabilia to prompt discussion, with the conversation often leading into other topics such as places of entertainment and work, old shops, and transport.

The many benefits to participants include a boost to self‐confidence and a feeling of wellbeing by active participation in a group setting, behavioural improvements out with the sessions and more personal attention being given to those who require that.

A strong football memories partnership has been established locally, with membership including Aberdeen FC Community Trust, Aberdeen FC Heritage Trust, Alzheimer Scotland, Cove Rangers FC, Inverurie Locos FC and Peterhead FC. We have enjoyed valuable support from local press and former players, whose guest appearances are always a highlight of the programme.

Sessions have recently restarted across the region after the two‐year Covid disruption, and the programme is keen to welcome new members. Sessions are free to attend and are run twice a month from Pittodrie Stadium, which brings back fond memories for many. Please contact Football Memories Scotland Area Coordinator Alan Johnstone at ajj1954@hotmail.co.uk for more information and to book a place at these free sessions.