SMARTT Veterans CIC will get veterans over 50, and younger in County Durham active again!
We offer "90 Min" weekly walking football sessions at Consett FC for a year.. Led by a qualified coach, these sessions will provide a fun and social environment for veterans to improve their physical and mental wellbeing. Walking football is the perfect way to get moving again at a pace that suits everyone. We'll also host social events to build camaraderie and support. This project tackles barriers to activity that veterans often face, offering a tailored and accessible way to get moving and connect with others.

SMARTT Veterans CIC listened to the voices of older veterans in County Durham. Our understanding of their challenges comes from direct engagement. Over the past 12 months, we've conducted focus groups and surveyed 100 veterans aged 55 and over. This revealed a stark reality: the transition from military to civilian life can be tough, impacting both physical and mental wellbeing.

SMARTT Veterans is more than just a walking football programme; it's a holistic approach meticulously designed to address the specific needs and desires expressed by older veterans in our community:

Accessibility for All: Walking football's gentle pace and adaptable rules make it accessible to veterans of all fitness levels and abilities, addressing the barriers identified by 72% who reported a decline in physical activity.

• Reforging Camaraderie: The sessions will combat social isolation (reported by 62% of survey respondents) and rebuild camaraderie.
• Nurturing Mental Wellbeing: Physical activity, social interaction, and a sense of purpose are vital ingredients for mental wellbeing, and "Consett Veterans" offers all three in abundance. This directly addresses the 38% of veterans who indicated they struggle with mental health conditions, providing a supportive environment to improve mood, reduce stress, and increase self-esteem.

Structured for Success: Our 80-minute sessions are carefully structured to ensure a balance of activity and rest, catering to varying fitness levels and promoting gradual progression. Each session will begin with a 15-minute warm-up incorporating gentle mobility exercises and stretches, followed by 35 minutes of engaging walking football, adapted to suit the participants' needs and preferences. The final 30 minutes will be dedicated to a cool-down with light stretches, relaxation techniques, and, most importantly, social interaction and refreshments.

SMARTT Veterans is about fostering community, belonging, and wellbeing amongst veterans. This project builds on our commitment to supporting veterans and provides a sustainable solution to address their unique needs.

The project tackles the silent battle against isolation, fostering a sense of belonging crucial for mental wellbeing. Participants will experience a lifting of the fog of depression, a reduction in anxiety, and a newfound confidence that ripples through their lives.

More than just teammates, they'll become a band of brothers once more. Sessions and social events will forge friendships as strong as those formed in the trenches, providing a vital support network that extends beyond the pitch. These bonds will be a source of strength, encouragement, and understanding, helping them navigate life's challenges together.

By improving their physical and mental health, veterans will reclaim their independence and confidence. They'll engage more fully in family life, pursue hobbies they'd set aside, and rediscover the joy of living.

How might they continue to be active?
We're not just creating a project, but a self-sustaining community:

• Kindling the Flame: Walking football's inherent enjoyment and accessibility will ensure continued participation long after the funded period. The thrill of the game, the friendly competition, the shared passion - these will become integral to their lives.

• Building a Legacy: Affordable membership options and volunteer-led sessions will ensure the programme's longevity, providing a clear pathway for continued involvement.

• Broadening Horizons: We'll explore incorporating activities like walking cricket or bowls, catering to diverse interests and ensuring continued engagement.

• Strength in Unity: The camaraderie forged within the group will create a powerful support system, encouraging ongoing activity and mutual empowerment.

SMARTT Veterans isn't just about walking football; it's about reigniting the spirit of these veterans. It's about providing a platform for physical resurgence, mental resilience, and enduring bonds. It's about empowering them to live healthier, happier, and more connected lives, long after the final whistle blows.

SMARTT Veterans is committed to delivering a high-quality programme that truly benefits our veterans. We've assembled a skilled team to make it happen:

• Expert Coaching: Sessions will be led by a qualified coach with extensive experience, he is passionate about making sport accessible and understands the unique challenges faced by veterans.
• Dedicated Volunteers: Our volunteers have prior experience working with veterans and will provide practical assistance and foster camaraderie.
• Supportive Staff: Our staff will ensure the smooth running of the programme, address any concerns, and create a welcoming environment

Beyond the weekly sessions, we will foster a strong sense of community through regular social events. These will include:

• Pub quizzes: A fun and informal way for veterans to socialise, test their knowledge, and enjoy some friendly competition.
• Discounted tickets to Consett FC matches: Opportunities to support the local team, experience the excitement of live football, and connect with fellow veterans.
• Seasonal events: Social gatherings like a Christmas party to celebrate the festive season and strengthen bonds within the group.

SMARTT Veterans is designed not just as a short-term project but as a sustainable programme that continues to benefit veterans long after the initial funding period. Our strategy for achieving this includes:

• Affordable Participation Fees: After the initial funding period, a small weekly participation fee will be introduced to cover essential costs such as facility hire and equipment.

• Strategic Partnerships: We will actively seek sponsorships from local businesses and Consett FC. These partnerships will not only provide financial support but also demonstrate community commitment to veterans' wellbeing.

• Volunteer Engagement: We will continue to recruit and train volunteers to assist with session delivery, event organisation, and administrative tasks. This reduces reliance on paid staff and ensures the programme's long-term viability.

• Community Fundraising: We will explore opportunities for community fundraising events and in-kind donations to support the programme's ongoing development and sustainability.

By combining expert coaching, dedicated volunteers, a structured programme, and a strong community focus, SMARTT Veterans will provide a sustainable and impactful way to improve the lives of veterans in County Durham.