A pioneering initiative is bringing the power of cherished football memorabilia to care homes, hospitals, and hospices, aiming to significantly enhance the mental well-being of residents through nostalgic engagement.

Spearheaded by the “Through The Fans’ Eyes” project, this innovative scheme plans to distribute 50 meticulously curated memory boxes across the North East, commencing August 4th, with a vision for widespread community impact.

These specially assembled boxes, filled with programmes, books, and vintage newspapers, are designed to evoke feelings of comfort and familiarity, particularly for individuals navigating conditions like dementia and sensory impairment. Organisers are actively seeking volunteers to help expand this vital outreach.

From August 4th to 14th, the project’s founder, Michael, and his team from the museum will be at The Pavilion, Keel Square, diligently filling each box with approximately 300 authentic items sourced directly from Michael’s extensive personal collection.

Once prepared, the memory boxes will be circulated to care centres throughout the region for a two-week period. This initial run is part of a dynamic system where boxes will be regularly exchanged, ensuring a continuous supply of fresh materials and new triggers for reminiscence.

Michael envisions a substantial expansion of the project, expressing a desire to have around 500 boxes in constant circulation. This ambitious goal aims to establish a weekly service, broadening its reach to support an even greater number of care schemes, hospices, and hospitals in Sunderland and beyond.

The profound therapeutic effect of handling tangible items like old football boots or programmes is central to the project’s philosophy. Michael emphasizes that football memorabilia possesses a unique ability to connect with individuals, often reaching them in ways other interventions cannot.

Beyond memory stimulation, the items within the boxes have been thoughtfully chosen for their tactile qualities, providing sensory benefits for those with sight impairment. Concurrently, visitors to The Pavilion during the two-week filling period can explore a larger collection of historical artefacts and learn about an appeal supporting the city’s new eye hospital, slated for a 2026 opening.

“While I set up the Fans Museum to support all aspects of health and education, I can’t comprehend the impact of losing your sight,” Michael stated, underscoring his personal drive to back the new eye hospital and raise critical awareness for its mission. The “Through The Fans’ Eyes” team will be filling boxes at Keel Square daily from 10 am to 4 pm, excluding August 9th and 10th.