ExtraCare and Bristol Rovers Run Inspiring Partnership at a Bristol Retirement Village

An inspiring new partnership between Stoke Gifford Retirement Village and the Bristol Rovers Community Trust is bringing creativity and community spirit to retirees in the local area.

With mental health problems occurring more commonly than we think, often because there aren’t outward signs or symptoms, it’s estimated that 1 in 4 people live with a common mental health problem such as depression or anxiety. In the older generation, struggles with mental health can be even more prevalent. With the introduction of this community partnership bonds are being formed and activities designed to enhance not only the physical wellbeing but the mental wellbeing of retirees.

Launched in July and made possible through the funding from EFL title partners Sky Bet through the ‘Sky Bet Building Foundations Fund’ the initiative offers a diverse programme of activities. From weekly social mornings to a unique drama group that brings theatre to life the integrated retirement community is embracing the opportunity.

The partnership began with charity The ExtraCare Charitable Trust reaching out to the Bristol Rovers Community Trust with the vision of creating a meaningful and inclusive partnership for older adults. Working closely together the team quickly agreed on a shared goal, to foster community, engagement, and wellbeing in a fun, inclusive way.

Every Thursday morning, residents gather in a central space from 10:00am to 12:00pm for relaxed, sociable sessions that include quizzes, games, discussions, documentaries, armchair yoga, and guest speakers. “These sessions are all about creating a space where people can connect, make new friends, and feel part of something,” Costa Chard, Mental Health & Wellbeing Lead for The Bristol Rovers Community Trust offers.

The Thursday afternoon drama group, held from 1:00pm to 3:00pm, offers a truly unique opportunity for residents to step into the spotlight and explore acting, performance, and storytelling.

Their debut project, a Music and Monologues performance by the group’s actors, will take place on Friday 7th November at 7:00pm, with plans to explore a Shakespearean performance in the new year. “It’s an inclusive, creative space that builds confidence and self-expression,” Costa adds.

Early attendance figures are encouraging, with morning sessions gradually gaining interest. The drama group is steadily growing, showing real potential as residents begin to engage more with creative, community-building activities.

As part of the partnership, attendees have been gifted official Bristol Rovers away shirts and invited to matches throughout the season, including the chance to walk the pitch and meet fans. These opportunities are strengthening the bond between the club and its local community, a cornerstone of the Bristol Rovers Community Trust’s mission.

“Projects like this highlight the importance of supporting older adults with opportunities to stay connected, engaged, and active,” Costa shares. “Isolation and loneliness are real challenges for many in retirement, and our aim is to break down those barriers by creating a welcoming and vibrant community.”

With growing participation, strong support from the Trust, and the energy of ExtraCare behind the project, the initiative is proving to be a true positive for those involved and a shining example of how football clubs and community charities can come together to make a lasting impact.