Sheffield’s elderly encouraged to take up golf

A project has been launched in Sheffield in which elderly people will be introduced to the game of golf in a bid to benefit their mental and physical health.

The scheme is a partnership between Age UK Sheffield, supported by Sheffield Hallam University and its AWRC Wellbeing Accelerator program, and Golf in Society.

Golf in Society supports individuals and families living with dementia, Parkinson’s, strokes, loneliness and depression to discover how golf can play an important part in their life.

Anthony Blackburn, founder of Golf in Society, said: “We use local golf clubs and put them in the heart of the local community and we invite local families to enjoy great days with us.

“We provide people with the opportunity to discover a renewed sense of purpose, relax and enjoy beautiful natural surroundings, and the chance to meet new people.

“For us, it’s all about creating opportunities for people to live a full and active life.”

The programme is looking to make Sheffield the first dementia-friendly golf region in the world.

Blackburn said the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic has meant that golf clubs in the city have had to be closed, which has led to the introduction of online sessions via Zoom.

He said: “Since most services are now opened up again, the programme has never been busier and interest in our project from families has tripled.

“The feedback from Sheffield has been extremely positive. 80 percent of our customers return for extra sessions.

“It is wonderful to be helping local families in a city with such a rich sporting heritage. Sheffield has a lot to offer and it is the perfect place to benefit from a programme like ours.”

He continued by saying the golf venues are Covid-secure, and in accordance with government guidelines; and the sessions are open to anyone regardless of whether or not they have any previous experience.