Golf in Society, the initiative helping people living with dementia and Parkinson’s through golf, is putting its full support behind Golf & Health Week, which begins on April 15.
The comprehensive week of digital and social media activity covers many areas where golf can be used effectively to help people that need it and it’s timing is fully supported by Golf in Society.
Funded by the social entrepreneur Anthony Blackburn, Golf in Society is adding several new initiatives to its normal golfing programme of events during Golf & Health Week.
Blackburn said: “Every week is a golf and health week to us, because we have been running our sessions for nearly four years now. We believe there is a real and very tangible need for people living with dementia and Parkinson’s to be given the opportunity to experience or re-live a golfing life.”
Currently, Golf in Society runs sessions in Glasgow, Harrogate and Lincoln, and new clubs are fast coming on board. Boston West joined in April, Market Rasen in May, and four further clubs are in discussions for summer launches. There are expressions of interest from another 30 clubs keen to run ‘Golf Days Out’ and Blackburn sees this as a sign that clubs are ready to get involved and appreciate the real benefits for people with dementia and Parkinson’s and also contribute effectively to their localities.
One of the key elements that Golf in Society Golf Days Out offer is the trusted respite that the sessions give to carers. It is often difficult for carers to find a resource where their loved one is in a safe environment and enjoying themselves without the need for the carer to be present. This explains the interest that is being shown by various health organisations, NHS health trusts, and GPs for enhancing their social prescribing methods and techniques.
Blackburn added: “We are determined to ensure that our ethos of person-centred care using golf is spread across the country eventually, and the R&A’s initiative to bring support to all people needing help with not only those living with dementia and Parkinson’s, but also other areas that will be of great support to many concerned is wonderful. The timing is perfect and we have organised some special sessions for our followers that will enrich what they are supporting.”