Club Doncaster Foundation set to launch new programme, Remembering Rovers

The new programme is free to attend on Rovers home matchdays at the Eco-Power Stadium and open to those living with dementia and their carers and family members.

Supporters will come together to reminisce about Rovers and their memories of following the club before watching the match together, ensuring they feel safe in a familiar environment while also providing the opportunity for respite for carers and family members.

Remembering Rovers will officially launch on Saturday, September 20 prior to the game against AFC Wimbledon.

Those attending can meet in the cafe at Foundation Fitness, located at the rear of the North Stand, from two hours before kick-off. Refreshments will be available alongside fun activities.

Prior to kick off, attendees will head to a designated area in the stadium to watch the game together.

Rovers supporter liaison officer Dean Medcalf said: “The Remembering Rovers project is really important and something that the Foundation should be proud of.

“It will really keep the memories going, which is really important for someone living with dementia. It’s an opportunity for them and their carers or family members to feel safe coming to a place they know and feel comfortable.

“The club prides itself on showing fans how welcoming we are and this is just another way of showing that.

“The Foundation is determined to look after everybody in our community and that is really important. I really hope fans can see why this programme has been introduced and show their support because it really is a fantastic initiative.”

Mary Beardsley from The Memory Club were in attendance at a consultation event and shared their ideas to help to shape the programme.

Mary said: “When people are diagnosed with dementia, everything in their life begins to change. It is a life-limiting illness but people should have the opportunity to live well with dementia for as long as they can.

“Social interaction keeps people going. If they have a hobby or interest, something like football, it is absolutely great for their self esteem to remain involved. It’s also great for their carers as well because they can enjoy the experience with them, or they may want a little break and a couple of hours to themselves.

“It’s important for them to be around other people, in a similar position to themselves and feel part of something. This is exactly what this programme will do.

Foundation head of community programmes Nick Gillott said: “Approximately 4,520 people in Doncaster are living with diagnosed dementia as of mid-2025.

“We already provide a number of services across projects within the local community on a weekly basis, and want to continue to look for even more ways to help as many people within Doncaster and it’s surrounding areas as possible.

 

“This new project, will provide support for those living with dementia and their carers and family members, while working alongside Rovers. 

“It gives fans the chance to come along, feel safe and supported on a regular basis and continue to enjoy being a part of something that they have always loved.”

Anyone interested in attending Remembering Rovers can contact nick.gillott@clubdoncasterfoundation.co.uk for more information.

Alternatively, you can apply for match tickets by clicking here.