Our Extra Time Hubs are the start of a national social movement of people in their retirement years where people meet weekly to socialise and do things they enjoy. Each Hub harnesses the power of a football club in the local community to bring older people together to combat loneliness and inactivity.

Studies show that 42% of those over the age of 55 are inactive. the EFL Trust’s own research revealed many people would like the opportunity to meet peers to feel less isolated, live well and do things they enjoy.

Extra Time Hubs harness the unique assets of the EFL Club Community Organisations (CCOs) network to bring older people together and give them the opportunity to meet new friends. Members are able to shape the range of activities of offer which benefit their physical, social and emotional health. Activities vary from quizzes to arts and crafts, gardening to yoga. Every week there’s something else to try.

“Extra Time Hubs has given me a focus and a structure once a week, the sessions really boost my mood and meeting and talking to new people has really helped me get my self-confidence back.” Mick, Crawley Town Extra Time Hub member.

“It’s important for togetherness for a start. We are all in the same boat and we are all looking for something to challenge us. Just because you’re getting older doesn’t mean that you can’t learn something new or do something different. That’s the whole point of it, to make you think in another way, not just your brain but also your body as well.” Bernie, Wigan Athletic Extra Time Hub member.

Funded with the support of Sport England’s Active Ageing fund from the National Lottery, Hubs have initially been created at 11 CCOs across the country.