Vikings Kit Celebrates Partnership with Charity Colours
After five years of partnership, campaigning for accessibility to sports and volunteering opportunities for those with disabilities, both Community Integrated Care and Widnes Vikings wanted to mark the meaningful occasion. The charity colours kit celebrates this time spent in partnership and the importance both Community Integrated Care and the Vikings hold in the community.
Community Integrated Care, formed in 1988, has worked tirelessly to support those with disabilities to be able to successfully move forward in their own lives. Community Integrated Care supports independence for the disabled; whether it be to secure their own tenancy, succeed at a job or simply enjoy their free time. In 1988, an era where disabilities were not perceived as they are today, the charity gave disabled people - who would typically be given stays in long-term institutional hospitals at this time - the freedom to live their own lives how they wanted to live them. Community Integrated Care has remained local, supporting their local community with jobs for decades.
The unique kit will be worn in the Widnes Vikings home match against Newcastle Thunder on 17 July, with match-worn shirts set to be auctioned off, with proceeds benefiting those charities changing lives through the rugby league.
Community Integrated Care has also been named Social Care Partner of Rugby League in the UK, with the blessing of the Vikings.
Jack Owens, Captain of Widnes Vikings, says: "Community Integrated Care have been a brilliant partner of the club. The difference that they make locally and nationally is incredible. Everyone in Widnes should be proud that our hometown created a charity that has changed society and made a difference to so many people.
"By wearing this kit, we hope to shine a spotlight on a history that many people aren’t aware of and to celebrate everything that it does to change the lives of thousands of people today. The players will feel inspired taking to the field in their colours."
John Hughes, Director of Partnerships and Communities at Community Integrated Care, says: "As a charity that was born in Widnes, it is an honour for our hometown club to dedicate a kit to our people. Community Integrated Care has always been proud of its local roots and stayed loyal to the town. Having formed in Widnes, we continue to support and employ hundreds of people locally to this day.
"Throughout our five years of working with Widnes Vikings, we have been fortunate to work with a club that cares so deeply about its community and is driven to create opportunities for local people. Everyone who works for our charity will feel truly proud to see their local heroes and supporters of the club wearing our colours, showing their support Community Integrated Care and all that we stand for."