Dementia is the UK’s biggest killer, with one in three people born today going on to develop it in their lifetime. But thousands are currently living with undiagnosed dementia. Which is why the we're backing the charitable work of the Alzheimer’s Society.

Grassroots football participants in Essex are being encouraged to support their loved ones by looking out for common signs of dementia and taking the first steps in seeking a diagnosis. Anyone who has noticed recent changes in themselves or their loved ones can show their support by using the Alzheimer’s Society’s symptoms checklist on their website and getting further information on receiving a diagnosis.

Too many people still think dementia is a sign of normal ageing, are unsure of the symptoms and are too afraid to visit their GP. But an early and accurate diagnosis unlocks access to treatment, care and support, allowing people to manage the condition and their lives, whilst planning for the future. An Alzheimer’s Society survey revealed that 91% of people affected by dementia saw clear benefits to getting a diagnosis, with many wishing they’d received one earlier.

Football came together during a recent ‘Support the Supporters’ campaign, which was backed by clubs and organisations across the football pyramid, including The Football Association (FA), the Premier League, the Vanarama National League and the League Managers Association, helping to create a future where football is unforgettable.

The Alzheimer’s Society has been The FA’s charity partner since 2021 and there’s already been a tangible impact, raising over £740,000, and thousands more across the game now know where to go to access vital dementia support. This season, the partnership is also raising vital funds towards research which will help to transform the future of dementia diagnosis, speeding up how quickly and how early dementia can be diagnosed, changing the game for everyone in years to come.

To find out more about grassroots football’s support for the Alzheimer’s Society, please follow this link. You can also interact with @EssexCountyFA on Twitter/X and search for the ‘EssexFootball’ page on Facebook.