Games Club: One Year On

It has now been over a year since we launched Wednesday Games Club, and it has quickly become one of the most valued parts of Good Company.

We meet at Crowborough Rugby Club on the second Wednesday of each month from 10.30am to 12.30pm.

Every session brings together older adults, carers, volunteers and trained hosts for movement, connection and good company.

It has become a regular highlight in the calendar for many of our members.

Movement that feels right

Not everyone wants to go to the gym or sign up for a class. But we all feel better when we move.

Games Club offers movement that feels familiar, fun and flexible. Each session has a different focus. We have played boccia, kurling, pétanque, table tennis and Wii bowling. Some weeks we stay indoors. Other weeks we head outside when the sun is shining.

In May, we introduced Walking Rugby, and it has become a firm favourite. With brilliant coaching from Judith and James, members of all abilities have taken part, from complete beginners to lifelong players.

“It felt like being back in the team again. The pace might be different, but the spirit is the same.”

Walking Rugby with The Wednesday Games Club

Designed by those who come

Games Club was shaped by the people who attend. A working group of members and carers helped us design it from the start.

They suggested the format, helped choose the games, and made it clear what would make them feel welcome. As one member put it:

“We were part of the group who came up with the format and suggested a table tennis table which has been a real hit.”

Crowborough Rugby Club was the unanimous choice. It is a familiar place, full of memory and meaning, with many members having played or coached there over the years. Their framed team photos still hang on the walls.

They also insisted on bacon or egg butties. We suggested fruit. It was politely declined.

Butties and a cuppa are available at every session, paid directly to the Rugby Club for £5.

Why it works

Games Club is more than just games. It offers a change of scene, something to look forward to, and time together that feels easy and real.

“My husband comes alive at Games Club. He teaches others how to play Carrom and gets his confidence back. While he is busy, I get time to chat and breathe.”

“My husband had not been outside for nine months until he came to Games Club. It is a real tonic. He feels safe there.”

“Games Club is set up in a way that feels normal. Just people chatting, playing games and having a laugh.”

It also gives couples the chance to reconnect in a different way.

“Playing games with my husband was a bit of a reset of our relationship.”

“We can chat about the activities later on at home. It gives us something to share.”

Volunteers, carers and members mingle freely. Some play. Some watch. Some help set up. Everyone belongs.

Made possible by the community

It was thanks to a grant from Wealden District Council, that we were able to buy the equipment, train volunteers and get the club up and running.

We now have a brilliant team of trained hosts who help set up each session, welcome new people and keep things moving.

Games Club is dementia-welcoming, and transport can be arranged if needed. There is no charge to attend, though donations are always welcome.

Come and join us

Games Club takes place on the second Wednesday of the month from 10.30am to 12.30pm at Crowborough Rugby Club, Steel Cross, Crowborough TN6 2XB.