When you think about your usual fanzone, it’s not exactly a chill experience. It can be loads of fun — full of rowdy fans, loud music, and drinks getting tossed in the air — but it’s not everyone’s cup of tea.
Sport has that special power to bring people together, with a collective sense of joy (and often pain) among fans. But the truth is that there aren’t many fan spaces that cater to the older generation. And, without somewhere they feel welcome, nearly 2 million over 65s have said they’re planning to watch the football tournament alone at home.
Sport has that special power to bring people together, with a collective sense of joy (and often pain) among fans. But the truth is that there aren’t many fan spaces that cater to the older generation. And, without somewhere they feel welcome, nearly 2 million over 65s have said they’re planning to watch the football tournament alone at home.
In a recent survey by Asda, which looks at how customers want to support their local communities, 60% of people surveyed think more needs to be done to combat loneliness and social isolation, especially in the elderly.
So, Asda has come up with an idea. They’ve aptly called it Nanzones — the first ever football fanzones designed with elderly people in mind. The free-to-enter fan areas will be fully decked out with football decorations and offer free food and dinks. People of all ages are welcome to come and enjoy the space and watch the football alongside elderly fans.
The first Nanzones will be launched for the England vs Denmark game on 20th June at 5pm. The match will be shown at three Asda locations across the country - Watford, Manchester Eastlands and Arrowe Park in Birkhenhead. For anyone wanting to attend one of these three events, they just need to speak to The Community Champion in their store.
But this isn’t just a one night affair. Asda is encouraging people across the country to check in on an elderly relative, friend or neighbour during the Summer of Sport. Sit with them to watch the game, or whatever event they’re keen to watch. Or why not create your own Nanzone? Anyone who’s interested in setting up an event in their local area can reach out to their community champion at their local Asda store to get started.
So for this football tournament, let's make it a party for everyone. Get your nan involved or an elderly neighbour, and show loneliness the red card.
For more information on Asda’s community work and the Asda Foundation visit https://asdafoundation.org.
Thomas Thorn