Aldanat Care raises almost £1k for cardiac risk charity

Aldanat Care hosted the event to raise awareness and funds for the Tom Petley Foundation, supporting Cardiac Risk in the Young (CRY).

The match took place on August 26 at Harwich and Parkeston Football Club and was organised by Sadie Conlon, resourcing manager at Aldanat Care.

Ms Conlon said: "The idea for the match originated from Aldanat Care’s Service Manager, Henry Nwaejike , who envisioned bringing all our support staff, managers and office staff together through sport to promote health and well-being while supporting a vital cause."

"Two of our staff are family members of Tom, adding a heartfelt dimension to the fundraising efforts."

More than 40 staff members took part in the game, which saw the Supported Living Team face off against the Residential Team.

Players donated to take part, helping to raise a total of £967.23.

The match was sponsored by the Aldanat Community Hub in Weeley and drew a crowd of staff, supported individuals, families and members of the public.

The Residential Team won 4-1, with two goals from captain Mitch Baya.

Father and son Kelly and Gideon Ahanmisi each added a goal for the Residential side, while Emmanuel Gregory scored for the Supported Living Team.

Ms Conlon said: "Aldanat Care extends a huge thank you to everyone involved — from staff and volunteers, including referee Jason Bearder and volunteer linesman, to the supporters who cheered from the sidelines.

"Special thanks also go to Tony Armstrong at Harwich and Parkeston Football Club for providing the venue."

Aldanat Care now hopes to turn the match into a wider challenge.

Ms Conlon said: "We would love to challenge other care providers and continue to raise money and awareness for CRY."

Aldanat Care is a care provider offering specialist support for adults with learning disabilities, mental health conditions, sensory impairments and complex needs through residential, supported living and outreach services.