Patients at Walsall Manor Hospital were cheered up with a visit from Walsall FC players as part of a new Swift Together volunteering partnership that has been launched.
First-team players Reece Smith and Ryan Leak visited the Children’s Ward, spending time with young patients, playing games and chatting about football. Walsall FC Academy scholars Ellis, Lincoln, Fin and Younusa also joined the visit.
They were there for the launch of the Swift Together partnership between Walsall Healthcare NHS Trust and Walsall FC Foundation, which sees Academy Scholars, Post-16 Football and Education students, and first-team players support patients and staff through volunteering activities across the Trust.
Twelve-year-old Stanley Page, who was receiving treatment on the Children’s Ward following a recent diabetes diagnosis, was among those who met the players.
A lifelong Saddlers supporter and season ticket holder since the age of four, Stanley said the visit helped brighten his day.
He said: “It was great meeting the players and spending time with them.
“I have always been a Walsall season ticket holder, so it was really exciting to meet some of the players in person. We played games and had a chat, which took my mind off being in hospital.”
Reece Smith said: “It has been a great afternoon. We have had the pleasure of meeting some of the amazing children here. We have been playing some games and it has been really fun trying to brighten their day and also help bring some of the Academy lads to build their personal development.”
It is hoped that as well as benefitting patients of all ages across hospital and Community Services, the new programme will also help young players to build their skills and confidence off the pitch.
Garry Perry, Associate Director for Patient Voice (Experience) for Walsall Healthcare and The Royal Wolverhampton NHS Trust, said: “Seeing the smiles on our patients’ faces during visits like this shows exactly why the Swift Together partnership is so important.
“Being in hospital can be a difficult time for children and their families, so having the opportunity to meet players from their local football club and take part in fun activities can make a real difference to their experience.”
Adam Davy, Director at Walsall FC Foundation, said: “It was great to have the opportunity to brighten up the day for a few families in the children’s wards, and you could see how Swift Together will make a difference in the community.
“We were delighted to have Reece and Ryan in attendance as first-team players too, helping to guide the Academy scholars and get them involved. We hope these life experiences will really stand them in good stead as they grow as young people, and that our scholars can see the impact they can have.”