Why England played without names on their shirts in the second half against Switzerland
England played without names on their shirts in the second half of their friendly against Switzerland to raise awareness of dementia.
The team came onto the pitch after half-time wearing nameless shirts to highlight how people with dementia lose vital memories.
The gesture is to support Alzheimer’s Society and in recognition of the 900,000 people living with dementia.
It aims to highlight how people with dementia lose vital memories, even the names of their favourite football players.
It’s hoped that, for 45 minutes, people can place themselves in the shoes of people with dementia.
The shirts will be auctioned to raise crucial funds for Alzheimer’s Society’s work.
Kate Lee, CEO at Alzheimer’s Society: “As the squad walk out in these thought-provoking shirts, we hope it will get fans up and down the country to sit up and take note of the reality of living with dementia.
“Football should be unforgettable - I hope it makes a massive impact that ripples from the Royal Box to the stands and into homes across the nation, inspiring people to support our work to raise awareness and reduce stigma and help us make sure no-one faces dementia alone.”
The Switzerland game is the “Alzheimer’s Society International” and marks one part of the FA’s partnership with the leading dementia charity, which will be in place for the next two seasons.
