Sporting Memories Cafe – Sharing Stories and Supporting Communities

Being Human is the UK’s only national festival of the humanities. A celebration of humanities research through public engagement, it is led by the School of Advanced Study at the University of London, the UK’s national centre for the pursuit, support and promotion of research in the humanities, in partnership with the Arts and Humanities Research Council and the British Academy. 

In November each year the festival brings together universities, museums, galleries, archives, independent research organisations, community and commercial partners to make research in the humanities accessible to non-specialist audiences and demonstrate its relevance to our everyday lives. Every year the festival features around 300 events across the country, working with an average of around 80 universities and research organisations in 50 towns and cities each year. 

Drop in and join us for a cup of tea and a blether while learning how community groups in Scotland are using sporting archives and other resources to help people living with dementia, as well as people encountering isolation, depression, loneliness, and other mental health issues, while also supporting their families and carers. 

From the Highlands to the Scottish Borders, whether its football, golf, rugby or shinty; there is something for everyone and a chance to share memories. Hugh Dan MacLennan Scottish broadcaster, author and sporting academic will start the day and Michael White who developed the Football Reminiscence Project with the Scottish Football Museum and Alzheimer Scotland will round off the day. You can also hear about the research behind the projects from Professor Richard Haynes, University of Stirling and why they are funded by charities such as, Life Changes Trust.

The full programme can be viewed here. Drop by for any sessions that interest you! 

Register here.