Graham Simpson MSP is supporting a charity based at Motherwell FC which is helping to change lives in Lanarkshire.
Central Scotland Conservative MSP Graham Simpson visited Motherwell FC Community Trust at Fir Park to see the range of scheme they run. The Trust runs programme helping to get kids and adults fitter and healthier. He said: “I was hugely impressed by the range of schemes which are run by the charity. People in the town and beyond should be aware of the great work being done by the team at Fir Park.”
Programmes run by the Trust include Memory Well, a reminiscence project funded by the Bank of Scotland Foundation. The grant enables the Trust to provide weekly reminiscence therapy sessions to 400 dementia sufferers. The project develops memory books of pictures for participants in the project and delivers dementia awareness sessions in local schools.
Other programmes include:
- Greener Well - a project to extend carbon literacy across Lanarkshire supporting the aim of a low carbon future and create a legacy of awareness and understanding that will reduce CO2 emissions in the longer term.
- Football Fans In Training aimed at obese men aged 35 -65.
- Football Fans In Training for Women
- Second Hand Smoke Campaign
- Youth Engagement League, a programme running with the SPFL trust aimed at encouraging community awareness and positive behaviours
Mr Simpson said: “Getting youngsters to eat healthier and lead healthier lives should be a key national strategy but is often overlooked. So for Motherwell to offer this scheme in 20 schools is superb and I hope it grows.”
Mr Simpson was shown round by Dawn Middleton, General Manager of Motherwell FC Community Trust and Graeme McArthur Football Projects Manager. Mr McArthur said ‘A lot of people don’t realise we are here and what we do for the community and over the next year we will gradually look to expand and establish positive messages. The trust has grown significantly since inception in 2011 and we will continue to do so whilst doing the right things for the people under our locality.’