England put spotlight on dementia symptoms for sell-out ‘Alzheimer’s Society International’

As part of The Football Association (The FA) and Alzheimer’s Society’s Support the Supporters campaign, the squad returned to the pitch after half time with names missing from their shirts, drawing attention to how people with dementia lose precious memories, even the names of their favourite football players.  

With memory loss the most commonly associated symptom of dementia, this year’s dedicated International aimed to help every fan support their loved ones just as much as their team by increasing awareness of dementia symptoms and encouraging fans to seek diagnosis by downloading Alzheimer’s Society’s symptoms checklist.

Although dementia is the UK’s biggest killer, too many people still think dementia is just a sign of normal ageing, unsure of the symptoms, and too afraid to visit their GP. 

A diagnosis can allow families more time to plan for the future and unlock the door to treatment, care and support, so fans can continue to enjoy the beautiful game. 

The England squad have donated the nameless shirts for auction, with funds going towards Alzheimer’s Society’s research that will help transform the future of dementia diagnosis.

England Manager, Gareth Southgate OBE, said: 'We are always proud to have the fantastic support of the fans at games like today, but we hope today’s game will encourage those watching to support their loved ones just as much as they support the England team.'

By working with Alzheimer's Society to take the names off the squad’s shirts again, we want to continue the conversation around dementia and its symptoms, inspire fans to visit Alzheimer’s Society’s symptoms checklist and take the first steps towards a diagnosis if they are concerned about someone they love.

Players also entered the pitch through an arch bearing the Alzheimer’s Society logo and lined up for the national anthem alongside banners representing the charity.

The nameless shirts have become a familiar part of the partnership, now in its third year, with similar stunts at last year’s Women’s International against Australia, and 2022’s Men’s International against Switzerland.

Radio DJ and television presenter Rickie Haywood-Williams was one of thousands in attendance at Wembley Stadium. His father was diagnosed with vascular dementia in May 2020.

Haywood-Williams said: 'This is something very close to my heart, so it has been a privilege to be here today and witness the support the England team are giving to such an important cause.'

Getting a diagnosis for dad was a gamechanger, and gave me and my family the help we desperately needed.

Kate Lee, Alzheimer's Society CEO, said: 'Days like today offer a significant opportunity to raise awareness and a platform to educate people on the signs and symptoms of dementia, and the substantial benefits that come from getting a diagnosis.' 

'Dementia is the UK’s forgotten crisis, and we seriously need to change the reality of one in three people with dementia living without a diagnosis, especially with exciting new research and treatments on the horizon. No one should have to confront dementia in isolation or delay seeking help.'

It has been another hugely successful Alzheimer’s Society International, and we’re grateful to The FA, Gareth Southgate and the England team for making it a special day.

Over the past three seasons, the partnership has raised over £750,000, with thousands more fans, players and staff now knowing where to go to access vital dementia support, changing the game for fans and players in years to come.