'An incredible way of unlocking memories'

Photo Credit: Gary Doyle

For former Owls full back Kenny Burton, Sheffield Wednesday has always been about more than just football.

Now, more than 50 years after his playing career at Hillsborough ended, Kenny, aged 76 and living with Alzheimer’s disease, is a familiar face at the Sheffield Wednesday Community Programme's (SWFCCP) monthly Memory Club, attending the sessions alongside his wife, Linda.

On World Alzheimer's Day, Monday 21 September, Kenny's story shines a light on the life-changing impact of the Memory Club as SWFCCP celebrates two years of the initiative, which has supported more than 1,000 people living with dementia, Alzheimer's, memory loss and loneliness.

Linda says the club has helped reignite Kenny's memories of his time at Wednesday. 

She said: "We've been coming along for around a year now, and I can really see how much it's helping to reignite Ken's Sheffield Wednesday memories.

"It was so lovely to see Ken reunited with his former teammate, David Ford, at one of the sessions. Ken comes along with his brother too, and it's wonderful for them to spend that time together.

"We've really enjoyed being part of the group and always look forward to coming back each month."

Led by former Sheffield Wednesday player and Health & Events Lead John Pearson, alongside Health Manager Sean Graves, the monthly sessions are delivered in partnership with specialist dementia and wellbeing organisations, including PFA-led workshops, ensuring attendees and their families receive meaningful social opportunities alongside expert advice and support.

Held at Hillsborough Stadium, the Memory Club uses the power of football to bring people together through conversation, quizzes, memorabilia, guest speakers and shared Wednesday memories.
Reflecting on the club's second anniversary, John says the Memory Club has become one of the most rewarding parts of his role.

He said: "Football has an incredible way of unlocking memories and bringing people together. Seeing familiar faces like Ken and Linda every month, sharing stories and enjoying each other's company, is exactly what this club is all about.

"We're incredibly proud of what the group has achieved over the last two years, and we're excited to see it continue to grow.

“I’d also like to thank former SWFC player Jack Whitham who kindly funded the printing of information flyers containing everything families might need to know following the recent diagnosis of a loved one with one of these conditions.”

Sean Graves, Health Manager at SWFCCP, believes the club demonstrates the unique role football can play in supporting wellbeing.

"The Memory Club shows the power football can have beyond the pitch,” he said.

“By working alongside specialist dementia organisations, we're able to provide a safe, supportive space for people living with memory loss and for their carers.

"We're not just celebrating two years of sessions – we're celebrating two years of making a real difference for people.

Over the past two years, the Community Programme’s monthly Memory Club has welcomed people from across Sheffield, creating a safe and inclusive environment where people can stay socially connected while enjoying the rich history of their football club.

To find out more about the SWFCCP Memory Club, please contact john.pearson@swfccp.co.uk.