After a three-year hiatus due to Covid, participants in Chelsea Foundation’s Activate Seniors programme were welcomed back to our annual end-of-year celebration at Stamford Bridge to socialise and enjoy a festive lunch supported by Levy’s, Chelsea Football Club’s catering partner.
Guest of honour was Chelsea Legend Carlo Cudicini who took part in a Q&A and hosted a Christmas quiz. Pupils from Flora Gardens Primary School sang a selection of their favourite carols.
Ellie Speirs-Lock, population health senior officer, commented: ‘I couldn’t have been happier to invite all our participants back to Stamford Bridge after three years following covid. It was a fantastic day, full of fun and good food! One of the main aims of our programmes is to reduce social isolation and bring communities together. A day like this does exactly that, enabling participants to meet new people and have the experience of visiting Stamford Bridge. It was also great to have Carlo attending, giving many big Chelsea fans the opportunity for a Q&A and photos with a legend.’
The Activate Seniors Project is part of the Foundation’s wider Health and Wellbeing programme, which aims to improve the social, emotional and physical wellbeing of Chelsea FC Foundation’s communities and supporters, tackling the rising health inequalities in our communities.
The Foundation’s work supporting the health and wellbeing of our communities is continuing to grow alongside expert partners from NHS services, mental health charities and older people services. It was wonderful to see over 100 participants who normally take part in weekly sessions attend Stamford Bridge on mass to celebrate their achievements this year.
Carlo Cudicini said: ‘We had a great time all together. I was blown away by the energy and camaraderie I witnessed. The chemistry established between Ellie and the Foundation staff is amazing to witness. They are putting a lot of passion and dedication into the project and the response from the people involved is incredible.’
All participants seemed to really enjoy the day with Mike Gleeson, an exercise and mobility participant, saying: ‘Thanks for the lunch and great hospitality today. Everyone went to endless trouble to look after and entertain us...it was all greatly appreciated.’
Meraney McCann, a walking footballer participant, added: ‘Thank you for a fab afternoon, we all very much appreciate all the Foundation do today and all year round!’
If you would like further information on the Foundation’s Health & Wellbeing programmes, please contact [email protected]