We are proud to announce a new partnership between Oxfordshire FA and Age UK Oxfordshire.

Our aim is to use this link to promote football opportunities to older people across our county, as well as raise awareness of the support and services available to them from Age UK Oxfordshire.

We are looking forward to engaging new audiences and seeing them become part of our community, whether this be walking football or 11-a-side for the over 50s.

Football brings benefits to both mental and physical health, and we are delighted that Age UK Oxfordshire’s Community Link Workers will highlight walking football opportunities to individuals they are supporting.

In addition to this, Age UK Oxfordshire will also be providing funds to launch a pilot of playing opportunities for the over 70s in partnership with the Oxfordshire Walking Football League.

Michael Thurlow, Football Development Manager at Oxfordshire FA, said: “This exciting partnership with Age UK Oxfordshire will help us connect with new audiences and increase the number of older people participating in grassroots football across our county, ensuring they get the physical and mental support older people often miss out on.”

Age UK Oxfordshire's Head of Physical Activity, Jason O'Callaghan, added: “Age UK Oxfordshire is excited to partner with Oxfordshire FA to further develop walking football across the county and support more older people to age healthy.

“Alongside the physical benefits of being active, walking football provides a great opportunity to have fun, socialise and feel part of your local community. We know this contributes to improved confidence and wellbeing that enables older people to live independently for longer.”

Find out more about Age UK Oxfordshire services

For more information, please contact Michael Thurlow, Football Development Manager via Development@OxfordshireFA.com

To discover Walking Football opportunities near you, please click here