Widnes Vikings Host VIP Match-Day Experience For Community Integrated Care

Over 100 people from national social care charity, Community Integrated Care, were this weekend invited as special guests of honour to the Widnes Vikings Super League game against Castleford Tigers. 

The event was a celebration of the pioneering long-term partnership between the Vikings and Community Integrated Care – one of the UK’s largest social care providers and one of the biggest employers in Halton. 

The partnership, which is now in its third successful year, sees the two organisations working closely together to promote the health and wellbeing of people supported by the charity, its colleagues and the wider community, through an innovative programme of inclusive activities.

The VIP day saw people supported – many of whom have physical and learning disabilities, mental health concerns and autism – staff, their families and friends, come together to enjoy an unforgettable match-day experience. Guests took part in an accessible sports session on the pitch before kick-off, with Community Coach, Andy Sheridan, putting everyone through their paces. The action-packed day continued, as the 100-man group were given the important role of forming the guard of honour that welcomed both teams out on to the pitch.

At half-time, Kemik, the Vikings Mascot, led the special guests on a lap of honour to a heartfelt applause by both sets of fans. All 100 guests then posed for a special commemorative photograph on the pitch, before it was time to get the second half under way.

Liam Clark, Head of Education at Widnes Vikings, said: “It was a pleasure to welcome our VIP guests from Community Integrated Care this weekend. The event showcased our fantastic partnership and seeing the big smiles on everyone’s faces was a huge reward for all of the Community Staff at the Club.”

Jane Beresford, Director of People Services, added: “Days like today are exceptional. The people we support, our colleagues, their families and friends had a truly unforgettable day. I am proud that throughout our partnership with the Vikings we are able to offer our people experiences like this as a thank you for all that they do.” 

“Together with the team at the Vikings we deliver exceptional services across Halton, from our innovative dementia café, to weekly sports activities in our care homes, all of which demonstrates an incredible social impact for the area. We very much look forward to finding new and innovative ways of keeping our partnership thriving.” 

 “On behalf of everyone at Community Integrated Care I would like to say a huge thank you to the whole team at Widnes Vikings who made us feel so special throughout the day – you are all a credit to the sport.”