Inclusion work plays a vital role in the Widnes Vikings Sports Foundation’s mission.
By fostering a sense of belonging and unity, we strive to create an environment where everyone, regardless of their background or abilities, feels valued and included.
Through our inclusive initiatives, we aim to provide equal opportunities for participation, promote diversity, and make a positive impact in the community. Together, we can build a stronger, more inclusive sports community.
Golden Generations is a programme that aims to decrease the negative impact loneliness and isolation have on older people’s health. Launched in partnership with NHS Halton Clinical Commissioning Group in August 2015, the programme supports adults aged 50 across Widnes, Halton, and Merseyside.
A report by Independent Age and the ILC UK identified loneliness and isolation becoming a ‘serious issue’ nationwide, with a ‘significant proportion’ of the older generation relying on television as their only source of company.
Over 20 adults per week attend the sessions held at the DCBL stadium every Friday 2pm-4pm. Our Golden VIPs take part in a range of events and feature guest speakers (ex and current players), as well as a range of cultural activities such as poetry alongside short walks around the pitch promoting physical activity.
The project offers a range of partnership opportunities offering an entry route to older people to discuss physical and mental health alongside wellbeing issues such as fall prevention and prostate cancer.
Widnes Vikings and State of Mind Sport have teamed up to support the ‘Extra Time’ group at Widnes Vikings DCBL Stadium.
At 7pm Every Tuesday, men of all ages are welcomed to the home of the Vikings in a safe, warm, welcoming, non-judgemental space to talk and crucially receive professional medical and clinical guidance. With suicide being the biggest killer of men under 50 these sessions offer vital, often life-saving support, to some of the most in need individuals in the locality.
Group meetings feature support from the like of NHS Merseycare, Zero Suicide Alliance and our partners, State of Mind Sport. A range of topics are discussed including recognising the signs of post-traumatic stress disorder, assessment, treatment options and the lived experience of living with PTSD. Volunteers are also offered the chance to obtain Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) Training.
During the session presenters share with the audience their personal story, a powerful means of getting the key messages across with real impact.
Sessions help address mood, depression, anxiety and suicidal ideation and, in the case of the presenters, what worked for them in turning their lives around. All our presenters are fully trained and have undertaken MH and suicide prevention courses, including MHFA.
The Vikings Extra Time session will have further focus via the ‘State of Mind’ round later in the season.
