Nottingham Forest is pleased to announce that it has offered Vicky McClure’s Our Dementia Choir a new long-term rehearsal space at The City Ground.
The gesture from owner Evangelos Marinakis, which will see Our Dementia Choir utilise the stadium’s Robin Hood Suite for practice sessions and social gatherings, underlines his commitment to supporting the local community and helping organisations that promote both mental and physical well-being.
In addition to providing the choir with a dedicated rehearsal space, the Club will actively identify opportunities for them to perform at events to help elevate their profile. Working closely with the Nottingham Forest Community Trust, the Club hopes to move will help raise awareness of dementia and support the important work of the choir.
A Nottingham Forest spokesperson said: "We are delighted to welcome Vicky McClure’s Our Dementia Choir to The City Ground. Their work is truly inspirational, and we are proud to be able to support them in any way we can. This partnership is a reflection of our owner’s commitment to giving back to the community and creating an environment that fosters inclusion, well-being, and awareness."
Our Dementia Choir, founded by acclaimed actress Vicky McClure, will hold rehearsals in the Robin Hood Suite fortnightly. The club has also provided the choir with storage space for their equipment and parking arrangements to ensure a smooth and welcoming experience.
In addition to rehearsals, the Choir is set to perform at The City Ground as part of a summer campaign organised by the Nottingham Forest Community Trust, with future performances on the pitch being explored.
Speaking of the new partnership, Vicky McClure said: "‘I’m absolutely made up Nottingham Forest is now the new home for Our Dementia Choir! With us both wearing red we already look very at home. We’ve had such a warm welcome at the Club and have lots of very exciting plans ahead.
“With community being at the heart of Our Dementia Choir and Nottingham Forest this is hugely positive for the city. Despite being a pie, most of my family are Reds and my heart belongs to all of Nottingham.”
The collaboration between Nottingham Forest and Our Dementia Choir goes beyond providing a rehearsal space. The club will work closely with the Choir and Nottinghamshire Police to educate officers and members of the public on how to recognise and support people living with dementia. This initiative is a part of the Choir’s ongoing efforts to advocate for greater understanding and empathy for those affected by the condition.
