First-team players Reece Smith and Ryan Leak, alongside Academy scholars Ellis, Lincoln, Fin, and Younusa, spent time with young patients in the Children’s Ward. They engaged in games and discussed football, aiming to lift the spirits of the children during their hospital stay.
The visit marked the official launch of the 'Swift Together' initiative. This partnership will see Academy Scholars, Post-16 Football and Education students, and first-team players volunteer across the Trust, supporting patients and staff.
Stanley Page, a twelve-year-old patient on the Children’s Ward, who was receiving treatment following a recent diabetes diagnosis, met the players. A lifelong supporter of the club, Stanley shared that the visit significantly brightened his day. He commented, “It was great meeting the players and spending time with them. I have always been a Walsall season ticket holder, so it was really exciting to meet some of the players in person. We played games and had a chat, which took my mind off being in hospital.”
Reece Smith described the afternoon as "great", expressing pleasure in meeting the children and playing games. He added, “it has been really fun trying to brighten their day and also help bring some of the Academy lads to build their personal development.” The programme is also intended to help young players develop their skills and confidence off the pitch.
Garry Perry, Associate Director for Patient Voice (Experience) for Walsall Healthcare and The Royal Wolverhampton NHS Trust, highlighted the importance of such visits, stating, “Seeing the smiles on our patients’ faces during visits like this shows exactly why the Swift Together partnership is so important. Being in hospital can be a difficult time for children and their families, so having the opportunity to meet players from their local football club and take part in fun activities can make a real difference to their experience.”
Adam Davy, Director at Walsall FC Foundation, echoed these sentiments, saying, “It was great to have the opportunity to brighten up the day for a few families in the children’s wards, and you could see how Swift Together will make a difference in the community. We were delighted to have Reece and Ryan in attendance as first-team players too, helping to guide the Academy scholars and get them involved. We hope these life experiences will really stand them in good stead as they grow as young people, and that our scholars can see the impact they can have.”
